A blunt statement by an NPP MP on the teachers’ hunger strike has ignited outrage, raising serious questions about state responsibility, public service dignity, and the limits of protest in Sri Lanka.
Veteran political tensions resurfaced after National People’s Power MP Lakshman Nipunaarachchi made controversial remarks regarding the ongoing hunger strike by school development officers outside the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo Fort. Commenting on the protest, he stated that no deaths have occurred in Sri Lanka due to hunger strikes in the past and that even if such an incident were to happen, the government would not be obliged to take responsibility. He further claimed that only one LTTE member has ever died during a hunger strike in the country.
The hunger strike, launched by school development officers who have served in the education system for over seven years, is aimed at opposing the government’s proposal to recruit them into the teaching service through a competitive examination. The officers argue that their years of service, including roles as class in charge, section in charge, and even deputy principal, should be formally recognized.
Instead of an examination, they are calling for a practical assessment to evaluate their experience. Lanka School Development Officers Association Secretary Viraj Manaranga said the officers are prepared to complete required postgraduate qualifications within three years of recruitment.
Police security around the protest site has been tightened. The association insists the struggle will continue until a fair and just solution is reached, taking into account their long service period.
