Legal battle in beauty industry case resolved in court judgment

The Colombo District Court, in a legal battle within the beauty cosmetics industry, has delivered a judgment, dismissing claims brought by Swiss Paradise against SSIZ International (Pvt) Ltd and Japlan Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.

The case, seeking Rs. 40 million in damages, revolved around alleged damage to the Plaintiffs' reputation and investments.

The Plaintiffs, Swiss Paradise, an importer and seller of beauty cosmetics and equipment, initiated action against the 1st Defendant based in Mumbai, India, and the 2nd Defendant operating in Sri Lanka. The defendants were Farook Aroos and Firdousua Arros of 42/4 Saranankara Road, Dehiwala.

Central to the dispute was the Plaintiffs' obtaining an ex-parte enjoining order to halt a significant promotional event for "IKONIC" and "Wella" brand products organised by the 2nd Defendant, with over 600 individuals registered to participate.

Legal proceedings saw representation from both sides, with objections raised regarding the authenticity and relevance of key documents. The defendants contested the extension of the enjoining order, citing jurisdictional challenges and disputing the plaintiffs' claims.

In his ruling, District Judge Sandun Whithana, in addition to refusing to extend the enjoining order, also dismissed the plaintiffs' claims entirely, highlighting the importance of diligence and transparency in legal proceedings.

Legal representation included Dinal Phillips, President’s Counsel, with Upendra Walgampaya, AAL, instructed by Varners, and Ms. Geethani Jayasundara AAL and Sahan Perera AAL of Varners appearing for the 1st Defendant. Lasitha Kaluwanaarachchi AAL with Gayan Ferando AAL, instructed by Sanath Wijewardana AAL, represented the 2nd Defendant. Mohommad Nazar with instructions from Lakshitha Wikramaratna represented the Plaintiff.