A hardline ultimatum from the Health Ministry sends shockwaves through Sri Lanka’s medical sector, as doctors risk losing jobs, salaries, and seniority if they miss a strict recruitment deadline.
Health Minister Nalinda has issued a firm warning that all doctors who have completed their residency training must apply for admission to the public service before the deadline of 12 noon next Saturday or face permanent exclusion.
The Minister stressed that the deadline for public service recruitment will not be extended under any circumstances, making it clear that even a minute’s delay will result in disqualification from entering government service.
He further explained that doctors who fail to submit their applications within the stipulated time will have their current hospital services terminated on the same day, with immediate suspension of salaries and employment benefits.
According to the Minister, those who miss the opportunity will have no option but to register with the Sri Lanka Medical Council and seek employment in the private healthcare sector instead of joining the public health system.
Addressing the ongoing tensions, the Minister alleged that the strike action launched by the Government Medical Officers Association lacks justification and is being driven by political motives aimed at discrediting the government.
He also highlighted the severe impact of the strike on patients, especially those traveling from rural and underserved areas, who are now facing significant hardship due to disruptions in essential hospital services.
The Minister accused the Medical Officers Association of targeting 453 post intern doctors through intimidation and misinformation, describing such actions as unethical and harmful to the future of the healthcare workforce.
He urged any doctor facing threats or pressure related to applying for public service positions to immediately report such incidents to the Ministry for prompt intervention and protection.
Emphasizing accountability, the Minister warned that strict legal action will be taken against individuals or groups engaging in intimidation, with the involvement of law enforcement authorities including the Criminal Investigation Department.
The Minister also pointed out that doctors who fail to apply within the deadline but are later recruited through the Public Service Commission will lose their seniority, placing them at a disadvantage in career progression.
He added that such individuals will be grouped with the next intake of approximately 1300 doctors expected to join in the future, effectively resetting their professional standing within the system.
In conclusion, the Minister called on all eligible doctors to make independent and informed decisions regarding their careers and to apply immediately without being influenced by external pressures or misleading narratives.
