COLOMBO : The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) on Monday , October 12 , ruled that the fundamental rights of six Muslim female healthcare assistants were breached when authorities at the Kalmunai North Base Hospital ordered them to remove their headscarves and other religious attire while on duty.
The commission found that the hospital administration had unlawfully restricted the employees’ religious freedom, discriminated against them and violated their right to engage in lawful employment.
The case arose after six newly appointed healthcare assistants complained that hospital authorities had instructed them to remove their headscarves, long sleeves and trousers worn in addition to their prescribed uniforms.
Accordingly, the commission Issued a written interpretation of applicable public administration circulars to all administrative staff at the Kalmunai Base Hospital, Kalmunai North clarifying that any staff member who wishes to wear a head covering, long-sleeved attire, and trousers, in addition to the prescribed uniform, is permitted to do so;
- Conduct a full and impartial inquiry into all allegations of harassment of the Complainants by any staff member of the Kalmunai Base Hospital, Kalmunai North;
- Offer the option in writing to the Complainants to resume work at the Kalmunai Base Hospital, Kalmunai North, if they so choose to return to the Hospital;
- In the event that any Complainant chooses to return to work at the Hospital, ensure that the above-mentioned written interpretation is enforced so that they are permitted to wear a wear a head covering, long-sleeved attire, and trousers, in addition to the prescribed uniform.
