History of the Civil Appellate High Court – Anuradhapura

Strengthening the efficiency of the civil justice system in Sri Lanka.

Establishment of the Court

The Civil Appellate High Court of Anuradhapura commenced operations in 2007 following the enactment of the High Court of the Provinces (Special Provisions) (Amendment) Act, No. 54 of 2006, which conferred civil appellate jurisdiction on the Provincial High Courts established under Article 154P of the Constitution.

Since its establishment, the Court has exercised appellate jurisdiction over judgments, decrees, and orders of the District Courts and Family Courts within its territorial jurisdiction in the North Central Province. The Court has played a vital role in ensuring the correction of errors of fact and law while promoting consistency and fairness in the administration of civil justice.

Civil Appellate High Court – Anuradhapura Building

Legislative Milestone

Act No. 54 of 2006

The statutory foundation for expediting civil appeals and expanding regional appellate jurisdiction.

A Specialized Forum for Adjudication

The Court hears appeals from the District Courts and Primary Courts of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Districts and exercises the jurisdiction conferred by the Judicature Act and other written laws. Over the years, it has made a significant contribution to the development of civil jurisprudence through its decisions on land disputes, property rights, contractual matters, succession, partition, and other civil litigation arising within the Province. Hon. K.H. Sumithrapala and Hon. Kumuduni Wickramasinghe were the first two judges appointed to the bench, and presently Hon. Sandun Withana and Hon. Anushka Senevirathna are exercising the Civil Appellate jurisdiction.

Civil Appellate High Court – Anuradhapura Building

Commitment to Judicial Efficiency

Today, the High Court of the North Central Province (Civil Appellate) continues to play a vital role in ensuring the fair, efficient, and timely determination of civil appeals while strengthening public confidence in the administration of justice within the Province.