The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) islandwide strike began at 8. 30 this morning, disrupting essential services in several districts.

Among the worst affected are the Jaffna, Killinochchi, Mannar, Mullaitivu, Trincomalee, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa, Nuwara Eliya and Hambantota districts.

Reporters said large numbers of patients were seen leaving the hospital Out Patient Department (OPD) due to the absence of doctors at the premises.

The GMOA together with the Anti-SAITM People’s Barricade are protesting against the South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine (SAITM).

GMOA Assistant Secretary Dr. Haritha Alutge said the strike would go on until September 15.