The Supreme Court has granted leave to proceed with a fundamental rights petition filed by two women challenging a Gazette notification that restricted applications for the post of Station Master at Sri Lanka Railways to men only.
The petition was filed by Ayeshani Jayawardena and Suresh Vidusha, who claim the Gazette violates their fundamental rights under Articles 12(1) and 12(2) of the Constitution, which guarantee equality before the law and prohibit discrimination based on sex.
The petitioners argue that the decision by the Department of Railways to specify “male applicants only” for 106 Station Master vacancies, advertised on June 13, constitutes unlawful gender discrimination and infringes on their right to pursue employment of their choice.
Attorney Nuwan Bopage, appearing for the petitioners, told the court today that the Gazette’s clause excluding female applicants was unconstitutional and should be struck down.
The petitioners are seeking a directive to remove the gender-specific clause and declare that their fundamental rights have been violated.
Taking into consideration the facts, the Supreme Court bench comprising Justices A.H.M.D. Nawaz, Priyantha Fernando, and Sampath Wijeratne granted leave to proceed with the petition and fixed the case for hearing on August 27. (Newswire)