Sri Lanka, April 1 -- Public are reeling from a double blow as the Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA) launched a nationwide token strike yesterday (31), compounding the hardships already triggered by global tensions.

Several hospitals reported incidents of patients fainting due to the absence of doctors. The strike began at 8.00 a.m. across all hospitals island-wide, according to GMOA Secretary Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa.

The association cited several demands, including opposition to what it claims are illegal transfers of doctors. Dr. Sugathadasa said the list of transfers, prepared by the government, represents "unfair and politically influenced decisions" and is unlike previous administrations.

"The token strike is a peace...