State workers demand Rs 25,000 interim allowance in 2027 Budget
COLOMBO – Trade unions representing Sri Lankan public sector employees on Tuesday (14) launched a public awareness campaign calling on the government to provide a Rs 25,000 interim allowance for state workers through the 2027 Budget, citing the rising cost of living and the inadequacy of recent salary increases.
The campaign, organized by members of the Government Services Trade Union Federation and the Joint Development Officers’ Centre, included the distribution of leaflets outside the Sethsiripaya government office complex in Battaramulla.
Addressing the media, Government Services Trade Union Federation Coordinator Anuradha Senaviratne said the nationwide campaign was intended to highlight the financial difficulties faced by public sector employees.
He argued that the salary revision introduced by the government in 2025 under a three-year framework had provided only marginal increases for lower-grade employees, leaving many unable to cope with escalating living costs.
“Electricity tariffs, fuel prices, transport costs and the prices of essential goods continue to rise, making it increasingly difficult for working people to meet even their basic needs,” Senaviratne said.
He accused the government of placing the burden of the country’s economic recovery on ordinary citizens while allowing wealthier segments of society to benefit.
The trade unions urged the government to reduce taxes on essential goods and include a Rs 25,000 interim allowance for public servants in the 2027 Budget to help offset the rising cost of living.
Senaviratne warned that the unions would continue their campaign until the government responds to their demands.
-ENCL
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