Young doctors allegedly faced intimidation, salary threats, and eviction fears as Sri Lanka’s healthcare crisis deepens with a nationwide strike disrupting patient care.
Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector has been thrown into fresh turmoil as the Government Medical Officers’ Association raised serious concerns over alleged pressure and intimidation faced by newly qualified doctors during the ongoing crisis.
According to the GMOA, doctors eligible to apply for the post internship vacancy list were subjected to various forms of pressure, including threats of removal from public service. There were also warnings that salaries could be withheld, while some were reportedly threatened with eviction from official hospital quarters. Under these conditions, many young doctors found themselves in a vulnerable and uncertain position, grappling with job insecurity and fear.
The association emphasized that professionals typically seek to resolve issues through dialogue and structured negotiation. However, they claimed that attempts at engagement were unsuccessful, as the Minister of Health had avoided discussions. In such a climate, the GMOA stated that doctors were compelled to proceed with applications under pressure rather than through a transparent and professional process.
The dispute comes in the backdrop of ongoing industrial action by government doctors, driven by multiple demands, including concerns over what the GMOA describes as unlawful transfers within the health sector.
As no satisfactory resolution has been reached, the association resumed its symbolic strike action from the morning of April 05, escalating tensions between medical professionals and authorities.
The GMOA confirmed that the strike is being carried out across hospitals islandwide from 8.00 a.m., significantly affecting healthcare services and routine medical operations.
The impact has been immediately felt by patients, many of whom reported disruptions to treatment and delays in accessing essential medical care. Public frustration continues to grow as the standoff prolongs uncertainty within the healthcare system.
Responding to the situation, Minister of Health Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the strike action is unacceptable, maintaining that all doctor transfers have been conducted in accordance with established legal procedures.
