The Nagaland Government Registered Class-1 Contractors Union (NGRC-1CU) has expressed surprise and concern over the Nagaland Foothill Roads Construction Committee’s (NFHRCC) efforts to pressure contractors involved in the multi-million rupee Foothills Road project to sign separate agreements with the Committee.
In a statement, the NGRC-1CU voiced that, under normal circumstances, a contract agreement is typically signed between the contractor and the concerned government department. “The contract agreements, which we believe have been drafted with due diligence by the government, serve as the definitive documents for all related matters, including delay in project execution, quality standards, and payment issues,” the Union stated.
The Union asserted that contractors who have been awarded the project are fully committed to executing the ambitious road project with dedication. “We believe that the involvement of any other organisation in the contract work, especially through forceful means, could create unnecessary confusion and hinder the successful implementation of the dream project,” the statement emphasized.
While the NGRC-1CU clarified that they had no objections to contractors who voluntarily choose to enter into additional agreements with the NFHCC, they urged the Committee not to pressure others. “We urge the Committee not to force other contractors who are not willing to engage in such agreement as it would set a bad precedence for future,” the statement continued.
The Union acknowledged the NFHRCC’s intent to monitor the progress of the project but urged the Committee to respect the autonomy of contractors. “We appreciate the NFHRCC’s objective to monitor the progress of the contract work, and we encourage their continued vigilance.
However, we respectfully request that they refrain from imposing such pressure on contractors who are not inclined to enter into a separate agreement,” the NGRC-1CU concluded.
The statement was signed by President Theyiekielie Tachü and Legal Advisor Vitsorel Lcho, who further underscored their concerns about the possible negative impact of these practices on the project and its future.