The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa – Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip

¶ 01 Madam Presiding Member, thank you for the opportunity.

¶ 02 I draw the House’s attention to the serious sexual assault that occurred between 6.30 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. the other day in the hostel premises of the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital against a lady doctor. The whole country now knows the details. Although such incidents of sexual violence occur daily in our country, this case has drawn intensified public attention and concern—especially among women across the health sector from specialists downward. We treat this extremely seriously.

¶ 03 Within 36 hours of the incident, the suspect was apprehended. Under the Acting IGP’s direction and the supervision of Senior DIG (North Central), Buddhika Siriwardena, five police teams operated; although they missed him at a suspected location yesterday, they arrested him this morning. Investigations are ongoing. We recall in history how incidents like the “Seya” murder turned into drama; but here, the suspect was arrested within 36 hours.

¶ 04 As Minister of Mass Media, I requested all media to protect the victim’s identity. I thank the media for upholding this responsibility thus far—though an incorrect person’s image was shared by someone. I hope the media will continue to act responsibly. In a civilized society, media conduct must help prevent recurrence of such crimes.

¶ 05 The Government has also significantly intervened to ensure security for our health staff who are distressed by this incident. I thank the Governor of the North Central Province, retired High Court Judge Wasantha Jinadasa, and State officials for their efforts. I visited the area last night and personally looked into security this morning. The Ministry deployed teams led by the Director of Medical Services and a Regional Director of Health Services to assess shortcomings and ensure security.

¶ 06 Anuradhapura’s specialists, doctors and nurses do not work under normal conditions; they could leave the country or move to the private sector, yet they are persevering. We must ensure a safe and secure environment.

¶ 07 We identified shortcomings: in recent years there had been incidents in the hospital premises—theft, threats, or intrusions into doctors’ rooms at night—which should be addressed at hospital administration level, not only by the Health Ministry. The Acting Director and administration had not taken adequate measures, allowing deterioration. There are also deficiencies in the hospital’s security service. We will act on these administrative and security lapses, and we will quickly provide official housing facilities and security for health staff working under difficult conditions.

¶ 08 While we were assuring security, we were informed at about 10.30 p.m. yesterday of a 24-hour island-wide strike. The union had earlier threatened a regional strike in the North Central Province if the suspect was not arrested by 8.00 a.m. today, then a national strike later. However, last night they suddenly launched an island-wide 24-hour strike, causing severe hardship to patients—some travelling long distances at night to clinics and OPD.

¶ 09 While we treat the Anuradhapura incident with utmost seriousness and are taking multiple measures, launching a 24-hour strike is not justifiable—especially after the suspect’s arrest. The health staff’s safety is important, but so is consideration for the general public who fund our salaries through taxes. I urge that the strike be called off; we are ready to discuss and address concerns. Please resume services to the people.

¶ 10 Thank you for the time.