Contractors’ blackmail tactics won’t deter me: Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar

Team Udayavani, Aug 8, 2023, 5:26 PM IST

Source: PTI / File

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar issued a stern warning to contractors who approached the State Governor regarding unpaid bills, asserting that he will not be swayed by blackmail tactics.

Speaking to media persons, Shivakumar emphasized that bills will be settled for contractors who have satisfactorily completed their assigned tasks as per work orders. Conversely, stringent action will be taken against those who failed to execute work or submitted fraudulent bills.

Shivakumar exhibited confidence in his approach, stating that he is not intimidated by any attempts to coerce him. Addressing accusations of soliciting bribes from contractors, he dismissed these allegations as unsubstantiated and expressed his awareness of the political games at play behind them.

He avowed that he has not demanded money or bribes from anyone and acknowledged the political maneuvering of certain contractors, highlighting his resolve to bring errant contractors to justice. Shivakumar confidently stated that he cannot be dissuaded by threats or tactics and underlined his ability to withstand pressure.

Referring to contractors meeting JD(S) leader and former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, he regarded such actions as common strategies in politics, regardless of the party in power.

Shivakumar reiterated that the government will only disburse funds after verifying and examining all bills submitted, asserting that hasty bill submissions will not expedite payment. He emphasized that systematic payments will be made to contractors who adhere to the work order guidelines and condemned the use of pressure or blackmail to influence the process.

Maintaining his stance on alleged commissions during the previous BJP regime, he stood by his claims and mentioned that the Lokayukta had identified discrepancies in payments. He highlighted the need for proper procedures in bill clearance and dismissed the prior practice of “demanding commissions for swift payments.”