Minister retracts directive to “break legs” of contractors in Parliament

Infrastructure Development Minister has retracted his directive to “break the legs” of contractors, clarifying his intention in Parliament. While responding to questions raised during the discussion on the Appropriation Bill on Thursday, he stated that his intention was not as it appeared.

During the discussion, UML Chief Whip Ain Mahara demanded an explanation for the minister’s statement about breaking contractors’ legs. In response, Minister Lamsal clarified that his intention was not to threaten but to ensure work gets done.

“You mentioned threatening contractors, but my intention was not that. It was purely to get the work done,” he said.

Defending his statement, he argued that if contracts need to be canceled, it would financially burden the contractors. “If they don’t work, we have to cancel the contract. If canceled, it could affect their future generations,” Lamsal said, “because the bank guarantee would be seized. That becomes a forced loan, which they have to repay. It also impacts future work.”

He further explained that he intended to exert maximum pressure to ensure work is completed. “We are trying to get them to work by applying as much pressure as possible. The aim is not to insult anyone but to get the work done. If they work quietly, we will remain silent too,” he added.

On Jestha 31, while inspecting the Nagdhunga-Muglin road section, Lamsal had remarked about breaking the legs of those who do not work after locals complained about issues caused by unremoved electric poles.

Surrounded by security personnel and locals, Lamsal had said at the time, “Where is the contractor responsible for these electric poles? Find him and bring him here. Don’t send him home. If he doesn’t work, break his legs, it doesn’t matter.”

His remarks have been continuously criticized in Parliament.