Former Minister Harish Rao Urges Immediate Action on Pending Contractor Bills
In a significant development from Hyderabad, former minister T Harish Rao has issued a strong demand to the state government, calling for the immediate clearance of long-pending bills owed to contractors who executed works under the Mana Ooru–Mana Badi program. Rao emphasized that the continued delay in payments has plunged many contractors into severe financial distress, with some facing tragic consequences as a result.
Contractors' Plight Highlighted in Meeting with Harish Rao
A delegation of contractors recently met with Harish Rao to detail their dire situation. They reported that payments for completed works have been withheld for over two-and-a-half years, despite fulfilling all contractual obligations. The contractors alleged a stark disparity in treatment, noting that while large contractors and suppliers receive prompt payments, small civil contractors are systematically ignored and even harassed with false legal cases when they attempt to claim their legitimate dues.
Harish Rao contrasted the current scenario with the past, stating that under the previous BRS government regime, the Mana Ooru–Mana Badi program ensured timely payments to all contractors. He revealed that since the change in government, nearly 1,500 small contractors have not received a single rupee. Many of these individuals borrowed heavily to complete their assigned works and are now struggling to repay loans, leading to heartbreaking outcomes, including loss of life due to overwhelming debt pressure.
Allegations of Bias and Government Inaction
Rao raised pointed questions about the government's financial priorities, questioning how it can claim a lack of funds for small contractors while simultaneously releasing hundreds of crores overnight to large companies for projects such as painting, benches, and supplies. "Is it because small contractors do not pay commissions? Is this the reason their bills are deliberately stalled?" he asked, hinting at possible corruption or favoritism in the payment process.
Despite numerous efforts by the contractors to seek resolution—including repeated representations at Prajavani, visits to education department offices, and requests for appointments with the chief minister and deputy chief minister—they have received no substantive response from authorities. This lack of engagement has only exacerbated their financial and emotional struggles.
Condemnation of Intimidation Tactics
Harish Rao also condemned the government's response to contractors who staged a peaceful protest near the finance minister's chamber at the secretariat. He criticized the filing of cases against these protesters, characterizing it as a blatant attempt to intimidate and silence individuals who are merely seeking their rightful payments. This action, according to Rao, underscores a broader pattern of neglect and suppression faced by small contractors in the state.
The situation highlights critical issues in governance and contractor welfare in Telangana, with calls growing for transparency and fairness in financial dealings. As the debate intensifies, stakeholders await government action to address these pressing concerns and provide relief to the affected contractors.
