The Attorney General's (AG) Department has informed the Supreme Court (SC) that a formal investigation will be conducted regarding residents of Divulapathana village in the Eastern Province and that appropriate relief will be provided before any eviction takes place.

Additional Solicitor General Vikum de Abrew made this statement when a Fundamental Rights petition filed by Bengamuwe Nalaka Thero and several residents was taken up before court, challenging the planned eviction.

The petition was heard before a three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justices Shiran Gooneratne and Achala Wengappuli.

Representing the Attorney General, de Abrew told the court that authorities would conduct an inquiry to identify the original residents of the village and take steps to provide them with alternative land or compensation.

Attorney-at-Law Kanishka Vitharana, appearing for the petitioners, requested that the residents be allowed to remain in their homes until the investigation is completed and appropriate relief is granted.

After considering the submissions, the bench decided to conclude the hearing with the consent of all parties, while informing the petitioners that the case could be recalled through a motion if adequate relief is not provided following the investigation.