Authorities have decided to establish a Special Tourist Magistrate’s Court in Kataragama during this year’s Esala Festival at the historic Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya to ensure the swift administration of justice throughout the festival period.
Monaragala District Secretary A.G. Nishantha said the special court will operate at the Kataragama Pradeshiya Sabha premises to expedite legal proceedings against individuals involved in illegal activities during the festival, which will be held from July 15 to July 30.
As part of the security measures, all liquor outlets in the Kataragama area will remain closed during the festival period.
Authorities also plan to intensify operations against the production, possession, and sale of illicit liquor, as well as drug trafficking. Suspects arrested during these operations will be produced before the Special Tourist Magistrate’s Court without delay.
In addition to anti-drug operations, a comprehensive security programme has been introduced to ensure the safety of devotees visiting Kataragama for the annual festival and religious observances.
The District Secretary further stated that strict legal action will be taken against anyone involved in activities that disrupt public order, including violations of health regulations, consumer exploitation through overpricing, theft, robbery, and illegal firearms-related offences. Such offenders will be arrested and produced before the special court for prompt legal action.
