A dire health crisis has gripped the nation as surgeries at Kalutara Teaching Hospital have come to a standstill due to a severe shortage of the anesthetic required for caesarean sections. The alarming revelation was made by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa in Parliament today (20), further compounded by reports of nearly one million mothers and babies across the country suffering from malnutrition.

During a statement at the beginning of the parliamentary proceedings, Leader of the Opposition, Sajith Premadasa, condemned the life-threatening situation and questioned the reasons behind the critical lack of essential medical supplies. Expressing concern over potential fatalities, he demanded answers from the government, seeking an immediate solution to the alarming shortage.

Sajith Premadasa's poignant questioning confronted the government with the gravity of the situation, demanding accountability for the potential loss of lives due to the unavailability of necessary medical resources. His plea for urgent intervention resonates with the growing sense of urgency among the public, urging the authorities to prioritize healthcare and allocate sufficient funds to ensure vital medical supplies are readily accessible.

In response, Minister of State for Finance, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, stated that the Ministry of Finance holds the health sector as a high priority and endeavors to address its challenges promptly. He assured that all necessary provisions, especially for the purchase of medicines, are being made.