Srinagar, May 15: Political tensions are rising in Jammu and Kashmir regarding delayed payments to contractors working under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Iltija Mufti has accused the government of negligence and corruption, claiming that payments have been stalled for an extended period, leaving contractors in financial distress.
She stated that despite taking loans from banks, they have not received payments for two years and urged the government to address their grievances.
Meanwhile, contractors continued their protests for the fifth consecutive day. In discussions with the media, they expressed frustration over the lack of payments for their work on the Jal Jeevan Mission. They noted that the government has been in power for two years, yet their payments remain pending, causing significant distress due to debts. The Jammu and Kashmir government has indicated that payments will be made after signing an agreement.
Iltija Mufti questioned the government’s inaction, highlighting that the protesting contractors have not been heard, and no officials have come to meet them. She emphasized that they are not there for political reasons but are seeking assistance for their plight.
She also called for an investigation into any potential scams, asserting that those who have completed their work should not be suffering due to payment delays.
Criticizing Omar Abdullah’s administration, she claimed that his government has failed, particularly in the education sector, and is rife with corruption. She pointed out that the government lacks the funds to make these payments, indicating a broader failure across various fronts.
Mufti concluded by questioning why the government is not addressing the contractors’ concerns, suggesting that it has become unresponsive and is failing to operate effectively, with corruption permeating all levels of governance.
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