The National Shoora Council has called for an immediate inquiry into an incident at Kalmunai North Base Hospital where newly appointed female public officers were reportedly prevented from entering the facility to assume their duties on August 10.

The National Shoora Council (NSC) has formally requested Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya to direct the Health Ministry to investigate an alleged obstruction incident at Kalmunai North Base Hospital. According to the NSC's letter dated August 15, several newly appointed female public officers were prevented from entering the hospital to begin work on August 10, despite being dressed in compliance with government regulations.

The NSC contends that the officers, who wore clothing adhering to their religious requirements while maintaining compliance with Public Administration Circular No. 13/2019(I), were unlawfully obstructed by hospital administrative personnel. The circular permits public officers to wear customary religious attire while performing official duties, provided the full face remains uncovered except for the ears. The council argues that preventing these officers from assuming their duties violates both this established directive and several constitutional protections.

The NSC's letter, signed by General Secretary Rasheed M Imthiyaz, characterizes the obstruction as potentially unlawful under the Penal Code and argues it sets a problematic precedent for public sector inclusivity. The council has made three specific requests: immediate directives permitting the affected officers to assume their duties, a formal investigation with appropriate administrative action against those responsible, and a re-clarification to all public institution heads reinforcing compliance with existing circular provisions.

The correspondence has been copied to Health and Media Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa. The incident marks a significant dispute over the application of dress code policies within Sri Lankan public institutions and the balance between administrative requirements and religious accommodation.