Srinagar, Dec 11: Treasuries across Kashmir are overwhelmed with complaints of delays in releasing pending bills for contractors and General Provident Fund (GPF) payments for Government employees, sparking concerns about the financial health of Jammu and Kashmir.
Both contractors and employees told Excelsior that for months, they have been making repeated visits to treasuries across the Valley to secure their payments, only to leave disappointed as officials cite a persistent lack of funds.
Contractors working with departments such as Roads and Buildings, Jal Shakti, and others complained that payments for completed projects have been stalled for the last two months, with officials attributing the delay to insufficient funds. Retirees, too, are facing significant challenges, with post-retirement benefits delayed for over six months.
Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Contractors Association, Ghulam Jeelani Purza, criticized the situation, noting that both bills and deposits have remained uncleared for the past two months, in violation of Government directives to clear bills within 24 hours.
“Contractors are dealing with numerous issues, particularly those who issued post-dated cheques in anticipation of payments. They now face the risk of legal action for cheque bounce cases,” he said.
He further pointed out that delayed payments have been a recurring issue for two years, severely affecting the contractor community. “Many contractors have already left this profession due to the prevailing circumstances, which have taken a toll on their families. We urge the Government to address this issue urgently, considering contractors have always supported the region during crises,” he added.
Government employees awaiting GPF payments voiced similar grievances, accusing the Government of withholding their hard-earned money. “I have been waiting for my GPF funds for the last four months. After decades of service, I feel the government treats me as if I am begging. I need this money to repay debts I incurred for my daughters’ weddings,” an employee from Handwara said. He added that creditors’ constant demands were causing him severe mental distress.
Another employee said, “The delay is unfair and shows a lack of empathy toward retirees who rely on these payments for basic needs.”
Director of Treasuries, Kashmir, Hameed Kumar, told Excelsior that the department is reviewing and resolving complaints. However, he did not comment on the reported shortage of funds.(Daily Excelsior)
