Contractors demand immediate release of Rs 800 crore pending bills stuck in treasuries

Srinagar, Sep 10: The Jammu & Kashmir Contractors Coordination Committee (JKCCC) has voiced serious concerns over the non-release of pending payments amounting to crores of rupees, which is severely affecting contractors, their families, and labourers. These payments, stuck in the treasury for several months, have caused significant hardship for those relying on daily wages and material suppliers.

JKCCC Chairman Ghulam Jeelani Purza stated, "Our families and labourers are suffering due to the lack of wages. We have taken loans from various banks to sustain our operations, but the continued delay in releasing payments has pushed us into financial distress."

The JKCCC has made an urgent appeal to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, the Financial Commissioner, and other top officials to expedite the release of these payments.

The committee also highlighted several other grievances that require immediate attention:

The non-renewal of contractor cards has been a major issue, with many cards still pending with the R&B Department. Despite repeated assurances, no action has been taken to address this issue.

Furthermore, contractors registered with other departments are being allowed to participate in R&B projects, while those registered with R&B are being unfairly excluded. The JKCCC has called for a fair resolution to this problem.

Due to the lapse in the March 2024 financial year, bills amounting to Rs 800 crores remain uncleared. Despite government assurances that these payments would be accommodated, a significant portion is still unpaid. JKCCC has appealed to the Financial Commissioner for the immediate release of these funds.

"The government previously promised a one-time relaxation for the renewal of all contractor cards. We urge the concerned authorities to fulfill this promise and address our long-standing grievances," added Chairman Ghulam Jeelani Purza.

The JKCCC continues to press for swift action to alleviate the financial strain on its members and ensure fair participation in government projects, urging the administration to act without further delay.