Overview
- Sathish Jarkiholi said commissions in public works existed earlier, exist today, and may continue, while urging tighter control of the practice.
- The Karnataka State Contractors Association announced a statewide protest on March 6, claiming ₹37,370 crore in unpaid bills and warning of stalled projects.
- Jarkiholi attributed payment pressure to dues carried over from the previous BJP government, saying about ₹3,000 crore has been cleared and roughly ₹9,000 crore remains.
- He said no new projects have been approved as the government focuses on settling bills within budget limits while finance officials scrutinize approvals.
- BJP Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka accused the Congress government of hypocrisy and corruption in response to the minister’s remarks.