Mon Feb 23 19:20:26 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Former Minister Demands Government Clear Pending Bills for “Mana Ooru–Mana Badi” Program

The Story:

Former Minister T. Harish Rao, also the Deputy Floor Leader of the BRS in the Assembly, has publicly urged the government to immediately clear long-pending bills owed to civil contractors who worked on the “Mana Ooru–Mana Badi” program. This demand follows a meeting with a delegation of contractors who expressed their financial distress due to the government’s non-payment. Mr. Rao emphasized that the delay is pushing small contractors into severe financial hardship, with some tragically losing their lives due to debt.

The “Mana Ooru–Mana Badi” program was initiated by the previous BRS government to improve infrastructure and basic amenities in government schools. According to Mr. Rao, approximately 1,500 small contractors have not received any payment since the change in government, despite completing the assigned works.

Key Points:

  • T. Harish Rao, former Minister and BRS Deputy Floor Leader, demands immediate payment of pending bills to civil contractors.
  • The bills are related to work done under the “Mana Ooru–Mana Badi” program, a BRS initiative to improve government schools.
  • Approximately 1,500 small contractors are reportedly affected by the non-payment.
  • Contractors have allegedly made repeated representations to the government, including at Prajavani and the Education Department, without success.
  • Some contractors have reportedly died due to debt pressure.

Key Takeaways:

  • The change in government has led to a potential disruption in payment processes for ongoing projects initiated by the previous administration.
  • The financial health of small contractors is at risk due to delayed payments.
  • The situation highlights the potential vulnerability of contractors to political transitions and policy changes.
  • The BRS is using this issue to criticize the current government and highlight the plight of affected contractors.

Impact Analysis:

The delayed payments to contractors could have several long-term implications:

  • Reputational Damage: The government’s reputation could suffer if it fails to address the issue promptly, potentially discouraging future participation in government projects.
  • Economic Impact: The financial distress of contractors could lead to business closures, job losses, and a slowdown in related economic activities.
  • Legal Challenges: Contractors may resort to legal action to recover their dues, further straining the government’s resources and potentially leading to protracted legal battles.
  • Political Fallout: The opposition BRS is likely to continue using this issue to criticize the government, potentially eroding public trust and support.

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