Over 200 public sector trade unions, including Grama Niladhari officers and surveyors, initiated a 'sick leave' campaign today, July 8th, which will continue through tomorrow. The action is organized by the Trade Unions Collective to demand salary increases and address other grievances.

Participants in the strike include government officials from various sectors such as postal services, agriculture, development, and prosperity management. NM Wijeratne, President of the State and Provincial Public Management Association, emphasized that the protest addresses several critical demands.

Postal workers, led by the United Postal Trade Unions’ Front, began their strike at 4 p.m. yesterday. Although the Ceylon Teachers’ Union reported to work today, General Secretary Joseph Stalin confirmed that they will join the sick leave campaign tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the Government Medical Officers’ Association and the Nurses’ Association have chosen not to participate, ensuring that healthcare services remain unaffected. However, the strike is expected to disrupt other public services significantly.