Opposition has also sought permission to re-inspect ballot papers

Lawyers representing Gen Sarath Fonseka, who is currently under military arrest, have filed the petition in the Supreme Court alleging the election result has been fraudulent and corrupt.

The defeated candidate urges the court to declare the result null and void.

Somawansa Amerasinghe, leader of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) told BBC Sandeshaya that the opposition also seek court approval to re-inspect the ballot papers.

Commonwealth monitors

"We also call upon the court to declare Gen Sarath Fonseka as the winner of the presidential election," Mr. Amerasinghe said.

Even though the day of the election voters were free to express their will, shortcomings primarily in the pre-election period meant that overall the 2010 presidential election in Sri Lanka did not fully meet key benchmarks for democratic elections Commonwealth monitors

President Mahinda Rajapaksa, all other presidential candidates and elections commissioner are cited as the respondents.

President Rajapaksa secured a sweeping victory over Gen Fonseka at 26 January election.

While the government hailed the result, the main opposition alliance, many other candidates and election monitors have alleged widespread irregularities including excessive use of public resources as well as state media.

International observers from the Commonwealth have echoed similar accusations.

The Commonwealth expert team has concluded : "even though the day of the election voters were free to express their will, shortcomings primarily in the pre-election period meant that overall the 2010 presidential election in Sri Lanka did not fully meet key benchmarks for democratic elections."