QAZIGUND, Jul 11: Contractors of Block Qazigund on Saturday staged a protest outside the Block Development Office (BDO), demanding the immediate appointment of a regular Block Development Officer and the release of long-pending material payments.
The protesters alleged that material dues remain unpaid despite funds already having been released by the Central Government.
They said the delay in payments has severely affected contractors and hampered ongoing developmental works.
The contractors also expressed concern over the absence of a permanent BDO, stating that several administrative and official matters have remained pending due to the lack of a regular officer.
“We are facing serious difficulties in execution of developmental works and clearance of payments due to the non-availability of a regular BDO and the delay in release of material payments,” the protesters said.
They said the authorities should immediately clear the pending dues and appoint a regular BDO to ensure smooth functioning of the block.
Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) Anantnag assured the protesters that the issue of pending payments would be addressed and that a regular BDO for Qazigund would be appointed within two days.
Following the assurance, the protesters dispersed peacefully.