History Section

PROVINCIAL HIGH COURT - ANURADHAPURA

The High Court of Anuradhapura is one of the High Court established under the Judicature Act, No. 2 of 1978, in accordance with the Constitution of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and functions within the Anuradhapura District of the North Central Province, exercising the jurisdiction and powers conferred upon it by law.

The High Court of Anuradhapura was established to serve the North Central Province, providing a permanent superior court for the trial of serious criminal offences and for the exercise of such appellate and other jurisdiction as conferred by law. Since its establishment, the Court has played a vital role in ensuring the fair, efficient and independent administration of justice for the people of the Anuradhapura District and the Province.

Located in the historic city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Court continues to uphold the rule of law while serving a region of immense historical and cultural significance.

High Court of Anuradhapura

High Court of Anuradhapura

North Central Province

Anuradhapura No. 02 (Special) High Court

As another step in the gradual expansion of the High Court system, the Anuradhapura No. 02 (Special) High Court was established on September 5, 2013. Accordingly, judicial proceedings at the court commenced on September 24, 2013.

  • Inaugural Judges: Hon. High Court Judge Nisshanka Bandula Karunaratne and Hon. Khema Anne Vaidurya Swarnadhipathi.
  • Initially, this court adjudicated cases involving child abuse and cases filed under the Prevention of Terrorism Act.
  • Furthermore, this High Court (No. 02) operates as the only court in Sri Lanka dedicated exclusively to hearing cases related to child abuse.

Anuradhapura High Court No. 03

Subsequently, as the judicial operations of the Anuradhapura High Court expanded, a third High Court (High Court No. 03) was established on March 21, 2022.

  • First Judge: Hon. A. Nishantha Peiris serving as its first judge.
  • This High Court No. 03 adjudicates criminal cases, appeals, writ petitions, and revision applications.