Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday asserted that while the government understands the grievances of contractors, no one can threaten or pressure the government over pending bills.
Speaking to the media at his official residence in Kumarapark, Bengaluru, Shivakumar said that the financial backlog stems from the previous B.S. Yediyurappa and Basavaraj Bommai governments, which sanctioned projects far beyond the approved budget.
“The problem is not new. Previous governments issued works exceeding budgetary limits. I have cleared payments as much as possible. Contractors are not limited to Bengaluru; they exist across the state. In my department alone, about ₹50 to ₹100 crore worth of bills remain pending, but overall arrears exceed ₹17,000 crore. We only have ₹200 crore available — whom should I pay first?” he asked.
New System for Payments Soon
The DCM acknowledged that both small and large contractors were under financial stress, saying, “Small contractors are owed ₹15 lakh to ₹1 crore, while major contractors have bills running into thousands of crores. There’s huge pressure from all sides, so we’re planning a new payment system, which will be announced soon.”
Commission Allegations Should Be Formally Reported
Responding to contractors’ claims about commission demands, Shivakumar said, “I have asked them to file a formal complaint. Let there be an inquiry. Nobody can threaten the government over such issues. Now they say they have not accused anyone — they must be clear and consistent.”
Coordination With the CM
On complaints about other departments, the Deputy CM said he would facilitate a meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. “I will fix a time for them to meet the CM and present their grievances. Each department’s pending issues will be addressed legally and transparently,” he stated.
Warned Contractors Even in Opposition
Reminding reporters of his earlier warnings, Shivakumar said, “When I was in the Opposition, I had warned contractors not to take up works beyond the budget. I had clearly said — there is no money, and I will not be responsible if you go ahead.”
On reports that the government promised to release funds by January, Shivakumar clarified, “That depends on the financial situation. We will pay only when the Finance Department releases funds. Payments will definitely be made to those who have completed works, but within fiscal limits.”
He also responded to the contractors’ threat of approaching the Congress high command if dues are not cleared by December. “I will fix an appointment for them — let them go and submit their complaint,” Shivakumar quipped.
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