October 25 (Citizen.lk News) - Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath has assured that there are no legal barriers preventing Muslim nurses from adhering to their religious dress requirements while serving in government hospitals.
The assurance follows concerns raised by Muslim civil society organizations, who pointed out that difficulties in wearing attire covering the head and legs have discouraged many Muslim women from joining or continuing in the nursing profession.
The issue was discussed at a recent meeting between Muslim community representatives and government officials, chaired by Minister Herath as part of an ongoing dialogue to address challenges faced by the community. Deputy Speaker Rizvi Sali, Minister Sunil Senevi, Deputy Ministers Munir Mulaffar and Arkam Ilyas, and MP Fasmin Sheriff attended on behalf of the government.
Minister Herath said that the current legal framework allows nurses to protect their religious identity while complying with uniform regulations. He highlighted that neither cultural nor religious practices should hinder individuals from pursuing careers in the health sector.
