THE HON’BLE SRI JUSTICE L. NARASIMHA REDDY WRIT PETITION No.28865 of 2009 ORDER: The petitioner was entrusted with various works by the authorities of the Panchayat Raj Department in the year 2007. The petitioner executed the works as per the stipulation and submitted the bills for payment. This writ petition is filed alleging that the respondents have not settled the bills so far. On behalf of the respondents, a counter affidavit is filed. The averments that they have entrusted the works and the works have been executed are not denied. Further, it is stated that at the time of entrustment of the works itself, it is made clear that the amounts would be paid subject to the availability of funds and that as on now, the funds are not available. Heard learned counsel for the petitioner and the learned Government Pleader for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development. Three years have elapsed, ever since the petitioner was entrusted with the works and the execution thereof was completed. Failure or refusal to pay the bills for a long period would certainly cause hardship to the petitioner. Normally, the works are allocated within the limits of the amount sanctioned in the budget. The respondents cannot take advantage of the clause, relating to availability of funds. In case, the works are launched without verifying the financial condition, it amounts to mal-administration. The delay on such grounds is prone to give rise to several unlawful practices, such as lobbying. The respondents cannot further delay the payment of the amounts. Hence, the writ petition is disposed of, directing the respondents to settle the bills of the petitioner, preferably, within a period of three (3) months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order. There shall be no order as to costs. ______________________ L. NARASIMHA REDDY, J Dt:10.02.2010 kdl