Karnataka DCM Pledges Swift Resolution for Protesting Contractors' Payment Issues

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, alongside PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, promises to organize a meeting with CM Siddaramaiah to address contractors' unresolved billing issues. Highlighting the insufficient funds in various departments, he criticizes the Union Budget and emphasizes the need for substantial state support.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday assured members of the Contractors Association, who are protesting at Bengaluru's Freedom Park, that a meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will be facilitated to address their payment concerns. Shivakumar, along with PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, pledged to find a resolution to the contractors' issues.

The Deputy CM highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by contractors across departments due to unpaid bills, stressing the urgent need for state intervention. He criticized previous administrations for awarding contracts without securing necessary funds, resulting in over Rs 37,000 crore in pending payments. A proposed solution involves securing bonds worth approximately Rs 50,000 crore.

Shivakumar also criticized the Union Budget, accusing it of failing the state while praising Karnataka's balanced state budget. He urged contractors to avoid media statements and instead collaborate directly with the government to devise financing solutions for Bengaluru's development. His message reinforced the state government's commitment to supporting contractors.

(With inputs from agencies.)