Kulgam, Aug 18: Contractors associated with the Jal Jeevan Mission staged a protest in Kulgam on Tuesday, demanding the release of around ₹80 crore in payments they said have remained pending for nearly two years despite completion of assigned works.

The protesting contractors said they had executed water supply projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission on government directions, with the aim of ensuring potable water supply to residents across the district.

They alleged that despite completing the assigned works, their bills had not been cleared, leaving them under mounting financial pressure.

The contractors said they arranged funds for executing the projects through bank loans and private borrowing. Some protesters claimed they were forced to sell family assets, including gold jewellery, to meet project-related expenses.

One of the protesting contractors said they had completed their responsibilities but were now facing severe financial stress due to the delayed payments.

The contractors said the prolonged delay had made it difficult for them to repay bank loans and private debts, meet household expenses and support their children's education.

They appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Government and concerned authorities to clear the pending payments, saying the release of around ₹80 crore would help them settle their financial liabilities and revive their businesses.

The contractors warned that they may intensify their agitation in the coming days if their demands are not addressed.