Srinagar, May 14: Political tensions are escalating in Jammu and Kashmir over delays in payments to contractors working under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Iltija Mufti has criticized the government, alleging that payments have been stalled for a long time, causing financial distress for contractors. She accused the administration of negligence and corruption.
Mufti claimed that despite taking loans from banks, contractors have not received payments for two years and urged the government to address their grievances. Meanwhile, protests by contractors continued for the fifth day.
In a conversation with the media, they expressed frustration over the lack of payments for their work on the Jal Jeevan Mission. They highlighted that the government has been in power for two years, yet their payments remain pending, leading to significant distress due to debt. The Jammu and Kashmir government stated that payments would be made after signing an agreement.
Mufti questioned why the government has not responded to the ongoing protests, stating that no officials have come to meet with the demonstrators. She emphasized that they are not there for political gain, but rather to seek resolution for the contractors’ issues.
She further called for an investigation if any scam has occurred, asserting that those who have completed their work are now suffering. She criticized the government led by Omar Abdullah, claiming it has failed in various sectors, including education, and accused it of widespread corruption.
Mufti concluded by questioning the government’s inaction, stating that it seems to be in a state of paralysis and is unable to function effectively, with corruption permeating all levels of administration.