Village-level administrative officers have extended their strike action into a second day across Sri Lanka, demanding implementation of a fuel allowance increase that was approved by Cabinet nearly two years ago.
Grama Niladharis throughout the country are continuing strike action on their second consecutive day, with officers calling in sick and remaining absent from their posts. The work stoppage, which commenced on August 10, reflects mounting frustration among the administrative workforce over unresolved compensation issues.
At the heart of the dispute is a travel allowance that has remained frozen at Rs. 600 for the past eight years. According to the Federation President Nandana Ranasinghe, the Cabinet granted approval in 2024 to provide an allowance equivalent to 20 liters of fuel, but this benefit has not been made available to officers. Ranasinghe publicly announced the strike decision at a media briefing in Colombo on August 9, emphasizing the persistent gap between policy approval and implementation.
The nationwide action is affecting administrative services across multiple districts. By submitting sick leave and withdrawing from duties, the striking Grama Niladharis are demonstrating their commitment to pressing their long-standing demands. Federation officials have confirmed that the two-day strike is being coordinated island-wide, underlining the widespread nature of grievances within this segment of the civil service.
