An Anuradhapura Magistrate has directed a security inquiry after a former Atamasthanadhipathi allegedly used a restricted entrance to enter the court premises while facing child abuse allegations.

Former Atamasthanadhipathi Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Thera appeared before the Anuradhapura Magistrate's Court on Friday in connection with allegations of sexually abusing a girl child. During the hearing, questions arose regarding his entry into the court building, prompting the judicial officer to order an investigation into the matter.

According to counsel representing journalist Bimal Ruhunage—who lodged the original complaint with the National Child Protection Authority—the monk allegedly entered the court premises via the entrance designated exclusively for the Magistrate. The counsel further noted that the former Atamasthanadhipathi had arrived at the court in the vehicle of President's Counsel Kalinga Indatissa, who is representing him in the case.

In response to these observations, the Magistrate instructed the court security officer to conduct a formal inquiry and submit a report detailing how the accused gained entry to the premises. This marks the second occasion on which similar concerns have been raised; court records indicate that at a previous hearing, comparable allegations were made regarding the monk's use of the restricted entrance.

The judicial proceedings have been postponed to January 8, 2027, allowing time for the security investigation to be completed.