Concerns Raised Over Jal Jeevan Mission's Effectiveness in Assam

In a recent Lok Sabha session, Gaurav Gogoi raised serious concerns regarding the Jal Jeevan Mission in Assam, accusing the State government of mismanagement. He highlighted issues such as delayed payments to contractors and favoritism, which have led to widespread distress among those involved in the project. Gogoi's remarks underscore the challenges faced by many families and workers who were supposed to benefit from the initiative. He called for immediate government intervention to address these pressing issues and protect the interests of all stakeholders involved in the mission. The situation has escalated to protests by contractors, revealing the urgent need for action.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 5, 2025, 19:24 IST

Scrutiny of Jal Jeevan Mission in Lok Sabha

Guwahati, Dec 5: The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Assam faced intense criticism during a recent Lok Sabha session, with Gaurav Gogoi, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition and MP from Jorhat, labeling the initiative a 'complete flop show' due to the State government's handling.

Gogoi highlighted significant issues such as contractor distress, delayed payments, and favoritism in the settlement of dues.

During the Winter Session, he pointed out that the mission, which is intended to provide household tap water access, has instead led to hardships for numerous families and workers.

“The Jal Jeevan Mission has turned into a farce in Assam. Those involved in the project are enduring severe difficulties. Contractors and laborers have not received their payments for an extended period,” he stated.

He noted that the situation has escalated to the point where contractors, lacking timely payments, have resorted to street protests.

“There are outstanding bills totaling Rs 3,500 crore that remain unpaid. Young contractors who took loans to undertake these projects are now facing significant financial setbacks,” he added.

Gogoi further alleged that only contractors with political ties have received partial payments.

“Only those connected to BJP ministers and MLAs have seen any of their bills paid. This exemplifies the failure of the so-called double-engine government,” he asserted.

He called on both the State and Central governments to intervene promptly and engage in constructive discussions to safeguard the interests of Jal Mitras, contractors, and all parties involved in the mission.

Previously, on June 9, the PHE Minister stated in the State Assembly that the Jal Jeevan Mission is subject to thorough scrutiny, including third-party evaluations and real-time monitoring. He mentioned that the State has initiated 27,596 schemes under JJM, with 18,498 completed and 17,230 already handed over to user committees.