The case that was scheduled to be taken up for hearing today (21) was taken up for hearing yesterday by a bench of judged headed by Chief Justice K. Sripavan following a motion filed by the respondents to the case.

Counsel for the petitioner, who is the investor in the BOI project, President's Counsel Gamini Marapona had objected to the move saying it was against the usual practice of the court.

Bank of Ceylon Chairman, President's Counsel Ronald Perera had appeared for the respondents.

Counsel and TNA MP M.A. Sumanthiran had also attended the hearing and claimed the delay in issuing a verdict on the case was delaying the resettlement of civilians in Sampur.

Counsel Marapona had requested court not to allow political speeches and said there were no objections for people returning to their lands, but that the state has to follow proper procedures in resettling the people.

The case has been fixed for the 15th of June.