Shoora Council urges PM to probe obstruction of newly appointed public officers assuming duties at Kalmunai Hospital

Wednesday, 19 August 2026 05:09 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The National Shoora Council (NSC) has urged Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya to direct the Health Ministry to conduct an immediate inquiry into an incident reported at the Kalmunai North Base Hospital on 10 August, allegedly obstructing newly appointed public officers from assuming duties at the Base Hospital.

The NSC’s letter to the Prime Minister dated 15 August states: “Several newly appointed female public officers, who reported to assume duties at the above hospital, attired in compliance with prevailing Government dress codes and circulars, were reportedly prevented, allegedly by hospital administrative personnel, from entering and discharging their lawful duties.

“As you are aware, Public Administration Circular (PAC) No. 13/2019(I) dated 26/06/2019, specifically Clauses 3(i) and 3(iv), permits public officers to attend to official duties attired in clothing adhering to their customary religious requirements, subject to the full face remaining uncovered (except the ears), in addition to designated official attire.

“The arbitrary obstruction of these officers from assuming duties is unlawful, contrary to established Government circulars, and may constitute an obstruction of public officers in the discharge of their official functions, an offence under the Penal Code. Furthermore, this action violates the fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 10, 12(1), 12(2), and 14(1)(e) of the Constitution of Sri Lanka, establishing a detrimental precedent that undermines inclusivity in the public service.

“In the light of the urgency and gravity of this matter, the NSC respectfully requests the Government to:

Issue immediate directives to the administration of Base Hospital, Kalmunai North, to forthwith permit the affected officers to assume and discharge their duties in accordance with PAC Circular No. 13/2019(I)
Direct the Health Ministry to conduct an immediate inquiry into this incident and initiate appropriate administrative action against those responsible for obstructing public officers and
Issue a re-clarificatory directive to all Heads of public institutions and regional health authorities reiterating strict compliance with the existing circular provisions to prevent future recurrence.

The letter, signed by NSC General Secretary Rasheed M. Imthiyaz, Attorney-at-Law, has been copied to Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.