Sri Lankan doctors gear for indefinite strike over allowances

The government doctors, including specialists, are gearing up for an indefinite strike set to commence at 8 am on Wednesday (January 24). The protest is in response to the unexpected suspension of the increment to the Disturbance, Availability, and Transport (DAT) allowance.

The Health Ministry, tasked with overseeing these crucial allowances, has officially confirmed the decision to suspend the allowance increase.  The DAT allowance, initially boosted from Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 70,000 following government approval of the President’s proposal, is now facing an abrupt halt.

Despite the prior announcement of the allowance hike, the Ministry clarified that the elevated amount of Rs. 35,000 would be put on hold, citing compliance with the Treasury’s directive.

This sudden development has ignited a wave of dissatisfaction among government doctors, prompting them to take a stand with an indefinite strike starting on Wednesday morning.