Harish slams Telangana government over unpaid bills to Gurukul schools’ suppliers

Harish describes the delay as embarrassing and a cruel act, highlighting the severe impact on the suppliers and the welfare of thousands of students

Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and former Minister T Harish Rao on Saturday expressed outrage over the six-month delay in settling bills for contractors supplying essential daily necessities to State-run Gurukul schools.

Rao described the government’s inaction as “embarrassing” and a “cruel act,” highlighting the severe impact on the suppliers and the welfare of thousands of students in these residential educational institutions.

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“If bills remain pending for months, how can food items be supplied to Gurukuls? How will quality meals be provided to the children?” Rao questioned in a strongly worded statement. He pointed out the alarming consequences, noting that “while Gurukul students are landing in hospitals and losing lives due to adulterated food, the government shows no concern. This is deeply lamentable.”

The former minister revealed that around 5,000 suppliers, burdened by the responsibility of ensuring no student goes hungry, have been forced to take loans to continue operations. “These loans are piling up, dragging not just the contractors but their entire families into financial distress,” he said.

Despite repeated appeals to officials urging prompt payment, Rao lamented the lack of response from the current administration. “Even after meeting authorities and pressing for action, there’s no movement from this government.”

On behalf of the BRS, Rao demanded immediate intervention. “It’s high time the government opens its eyes. Clear the pending bills accumulated over the last six months without delay and ensure that Gurukul children receive nutritious, quality meals.”