Maharashtra Contractors Association Urges Govt Action Against Threats and Extortion
Mumbai, 6th February 2024: In the midst of election-year political maneuvering, contractors and engineer associations are grappling with challenges in executing projects due to intense political rivalry. Alleging threats, extortion attempts, and physical assaults, two organizations are urging the Maharashtra government to enact legislation for the protection of contractors, similar to laws safeguarding journalists and doctors.
They have communicated their concerns to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the two deputy Chief Ministers, urging the formulation of a law to safeguard contractors at work. If corrective measures are not implemented, they have issued a warning to halt all work by the end of February.
Milind Bhonsale, President of the Maharashtra State Contractors Association (MSCA) and State Engineers Association (SEA), revealed ongoing projects worth approximately Rs 1 lakh crore. Bhonsale expressed frustration, stating that opposition and rivals often obstruct the work at project sites, resorting to violence against contractors and demanding money. He emphasized the need for a dedicated law to protect contractors, drawing parallels with laws safeguarding journalists and doctors. Bhonsale highlighted the reluctance of officials to take action, emphasizing the necessity for a special law to address these issues.
In a joint letter last week, MSCA and SEA outlined the challenges they face. They pointed out that despite approval from ruling MLAs and MPs for extensive development projects in the state, political groups opposed to the ruling party at the village level often impede the work. The letter highlighted the use of vulgar language and intimidation tactics by individuals working under the orders of these groups. It also noted instances where expert officers and clerks assigned government work were prevented from carrying out their duties, facing threats of bodily harm.
This situation echoes similar concerns raised by other associations in the past. Last year, the Maharashtra State Chemists and Druggists Association (MSCDA) accused the Food and Drugs Administration minister, Sanjay Rathod, of corruption. The association threatened a strike if their complaints about extortion demands were not investigated. Rathod denied the allegations. Additionally, Public Works Department (PWD) minister and BJP leader Ravindra Chavan had spoken out about corruption in the PWD department linked to transfers, expressing his inability to curb corrupt practices despite his efforts.
