Mysuru: Former Mayor and BJP leader Sandesh Swamy has urged the State Government to provide more opportunities for newly licenced young contractors in Urban Local Bodies and other Government tenders.

In a letter addressed to CM Siddaramaiah, Swamy expressed concern that new contractors are eagerly awaiting tenders but are being sidelined due to influence of established contractors. He alleged that these new contractors are being deprived of opportunities due to the schemes of vested interests.

Swamy also highlighted the broader issue of engineering graduates and diploma holders struggling to find Government jobs. He pointed out that engineers appointed on a contractual basis in various Govt. Departments are being exploited.

He criticised the favouritism shown towards entrenched contractors in Urban Local Bodies and the Labour Department, with limited opportunities available for young contractors.

He noted that the situation is similar in the MCC, where only established contractors are awarded tenders. Emphasising that young contractors need experience to build their careers, Swamy called for a review of the rules regarding work experience for tender allocations. He urged the authorities to consider licensed youth contractors for contracts without imposing stringent experience requirements.

He warned that if the Government does not address the demands of youth contractors who are seeking work, a protest will be launched. A copy of the letter has also been sent to the Urban Development Minister, Labour Minister and the State Chief Secretary for their attention.