Trade Union Action Crippling Sri Lanka?

COLOMBO(News 1st); The Join Committee of University Trade Unions has raised concerns over the government's lack of response to their demands.

The strike, initiated in protest against a 15 percent salary cut and the absence of a monthly allowance increase, has entered its 61st day.

In response to the government's silence, satyagrahas—peaceful protests—have sprung up in front of several universities across the country.

The Rajarata University community continues their sit-in protest, demanding fair treatment and resolution of their grievances.

Chamara Wijeratne, Chairman of the Joint Trade Union Alliance at the Rajarata University, expressed frustration, stating, "This government has not given us a proper answer. Today or tomorrow, we will engage in discussions with the University Grants Commission Chairman and Finance Ministry officials. Our aim is to restore normalcy to the university system."

Non-academic staff members at Uva Wellassa University persist in their peaceful demonstration, seeking redress for their concerns.

The Karapitiya Faculty of Medicine maintains its protest, emphasizing the urgency of their demands. Their resilience underscores the gravity of the issues faced by non-academic employees.

As the strike enters its third month, the university community awaits concrete action from the government.

Ayurvedic Medical Officers’ Association:

The Government Ayurvedic Medical Officers’ Association has launched a trade union action today, citing concerns related to allowances.

Dr. Upul Kondasinghe, the convenor of the trade union joint committee, announced that their members will cease performing additional duties in Ayurvedic hospitals starting today.

Teachers and Principals Raise Black Flags:

The Union of Teachers and Principals has taken a stand today, raising black flags in front of government schools. This action comes in response to the brutal attack on their protest held in Colombo recently.

During the initial demonstration, Sri Lankan police used water cannons and tear gas against principals and teachers near the Fort Railway Station.

Grama Niladhari Officers' Strike:

Last week, the Grama Niladhari officers engaged in a Work To Rule campaign.

Their trade union action was based on several issues concerning the constitution of Grama Niladhari services and not increasing the allowances.