The main Opposition, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), alleged that between 500 and 800 types of medicines are in scarce supply in hospitals, claiming that such is indicative of a decline in free healthcare.

SJB Dehiwala–Mount Lavinia Urban Councillor Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa made this remark during a press briefing held yesterday (31 July).

He opined that the public has lost trust in the free healthcare system and that they find it difficult to obtain medicines and medical equipment from outside hospitals. He said that the Government should look into the situation, which it had promised to change.

“There is a shortage of medicines in hospitals and an inability to conduct medical tests. The situation is such that people are unable to undergo surgery unless they have around Rs. 3–4 million. This inconveniences the people,” Dr. Sanjeewa told the media, adding that the Government should not cut relief systems available to the public. On the contrary, he said, the Government should ensure the stable maintenance of welfare and social security programmes available to the ordinary people.