News

Sudden shutdown of NEXT factory leaves 1,400 workers jobless

Published

9 hours ago

May 21, 2025

editor

More than 1,400 employees of the NEXT garment factory in the Katunayake Free Trade Zone were abruptly left jobless after the company announced its immediate closure via a WhatsApp message late on May 19.

The factory, operational for nearly 40 years, cited rising costs and persistent financial losses as reasons for shutting down. A company statement revealed that 1,416 out of 2,825 workers were affected, while employees in other divisions would retain their jobs.

Workers were offered a severance package of two months’ salary, but trade unions argue the closure breached labor agreements and was executed without proper notice.

“This is an unjust dismissal—workers deserve fair treatment and consultation,” said a union representative, demanding government intervention.

The sudden shutdown has sparked protests, with employees calling for legal action and better compensation. The Ministry of Labour is expected to review the case amid growing concerns over worker rights in Sri Lanka’s export sector.

News

03 vehicles collide at railway crossing

Published

4 hours ago

May 21, 2025

editor

03 vehicles have collided at the Merawala railway crossing on the Chilaw-Colombo main road.

The accident occurred at around 6.25 a.m. this morning (May 21) when a van, which had stopped behind a fuel bowser at the Chilaw Marawala railway crossing while it was closed for train traffic, was rear-ended by a prime mover transporting cement.

The prime mover had been unable to stop due to brake failure.

The van involved in the accident sustained significant damage and Chilaw Police are currently conducting further investigations.

(Pic: Accident 1st)

News

Ramith Rambukwella arrives before CIABOC

Published

4 hours ago

May 21, 2025

editor

Ramith Rambukwella – son of former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella arrived at the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) earlier today (May 21) to record a statement.

Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali yesterday (May 20) ordered the further remand of Keheliya Rambukwella until June 03, following his arrest by the CIABOC over 03 complaints related to alleged corruption.

The court also granted permission to name Ramith Rambukwella as a suspect in the case.

News

Mahindananda seeks permission for home cooked meals

Published

4 hours ago

May 21, 2025

editor

Former Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage, who is currently in remand custody, has submitted a written request to prison authorities seeking permission to receive food from his home.

He is currently being held at the “M 2” ward of the Colombo Remand Prison along with around 10 other prisoners, according to reports.

It is also reported that former minister Keheliya Rambukwella is being detained in the same ward.