JJM Contractors Protest in Srinagar, Demand Immediate Release of Pending Dues | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Contractors associated with the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest in Srinagar, demanding the immediate release of long-pending payments for works executed under the scheme.

The protest was held at the Chief Office of the Jal Shakti Department under the banner of the Contractors Coordination Committee. A large number of contractors participated, highlighting the financial strain caused by delays in the disbursement of payments.

The protesting contractors stated that, despite completing assigned projects under JJM, their payments have remained pending for a prolonged period, pushing many into severe financial distress. They said the delay has adversely affected both their professional commitments and personal lives.

Speaking to the media, Nazir Ahmad, a representative of the Contractors Coordination Committee, appealed to the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir to intervene and ensure the immediate clearance of dues.

“Contractors, particularly those associated with JJM works, are facing immense hardship due to non-payment. We are unable to pay bank instalments and even meet essential expenses such as our children’s school fees. The situation has become extremely difficult,” he said.

The committee urged the administration to take prompt and decisive action, warning that continued delays could hamper ongoing works and affect future projects under the mission.

The protesters reiterated that the timely release of funds is essential to sustain development works under JJM and to prevent further financial distress among contractors. (KNC)