Supplementary medical professionals in Sri Lanka launch token strike over unfair allowance raise

Professionals in Supplementary Medical Service have launched a token strike today (January 09) at 08:00 AM at all government hospitals, against the government’s decision to not provide them with the Disturbance, Availability and Transport (DAT) allowance of Rs. 35,000.
Commenting on the issue, the president of the Joint Council for Professions of Supplementary Medicine, Ravi Kumudesh questioned the Cabinet’s decision to increase Disturbance, Availability and Transport (DAT) allowance for government doctors but not for health professionals.
Ravi Kumudesh said the supplementary medical professionals have completely been neglected by the government when serving “economic justice”.
He also vowed to go on a continuous strike if the authorities do not resolve the issue.
The Cabinet on Monday (January 08) approved President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s proposal to double the Disturbance, Availability and Transport (DAT) allowance paid to government doctors from Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 70,000.
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Six police officers arrested over alleged priest assault granted bail January 29, 2026
- Sri Lanka moves toward ‘Dream School’ system for all grades January 29, 2026
- ASP Rohan Olugala appointed Director of Walana Anti Corruption Unit January 29, 2026
- Sri Lanka launches five-year national action plan to combat human trafficking January 29, 2026
- Équité launches media guidelines to protect LGBTIQ+ rights in Sri Lanka January 28, 2026

