Minister’s “No Payment” Remark Sparks Protest Threat from Contractors

Birtamod, July 30 — Contractors who completed infrastructure projects in Jhapa and Ilam districts have warned of phase-wise protests against the Koshi Province Government over unpaid dues exceeding NPR 220 million.

Ramesh Adhikari, president of the Construction Entrepreneurs’ Association, Jhapa, said payments for around 34 projects are still pending. He warned that if the government continues to ignore their concerns, they will be compelled to protest. On July 29, the association submitted memorandums to the Infrastructure Development Office and the District Administration Office in Jhapa, demanding immediate payment.

The delegation, led by President Adhikari, submitted the memorandum to Senior Engineer Om Prakash Sah at the Infrastructure Office and to Chief District Officer Gopal Kumar Adhikari. General Secretary Pushparaj Niraula also submitted a copy to SP Rajan Limbu of the District Police Office.

Earlier, on July 24, the affected contractors had submitted a memorandum to Koshi Province Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki and Minister for Physical Infrastructure Bhupendra Rai, urging prompt payment.

According to the association, contractors completed the 2080/81 fiscal year projects by taking loans. Even though they submitted VAT bills before Asar 24 (July 8), payments were halted due to lack of verification, pushing many into financial crisis.

Despite repeated appeals, the current fiscal year 2082/83 budget did not address the issue, which the government had earlier promised to include.

While Chief Minister Karki assured support, the association expressed frustration over Minister Rai’s statement: “Under no condition will the payment be made,” calling it irresponsible and disappointing.

The association urged the government not to force contractors out of business and demanded a clear action plan to release pending payments immediately.