Harassment linked to microfinance loans leads to deaths in Karnataka

Karnataka has been rocked by a series of tragic incidents linked to harassment from microfinance lenders, with the death toll now rising to four. In Bidar, a woman took her own life after being unable to clear over Rs 3 lakh in loans from various cooperative societies. The relentless pressure from loan agents is believed to have driven her to despair.

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Raichur 

In Raichur, Sharanbasappa, a man burdened with Rs 80,000 in loans, also died by suicide after facing constant harassment for repayments. His wife, left grieving and struggling to care for their three children, offered her mangalsutra to the state’s Home Minister, Dr. G Parameshwara, in a desperate plea for help.

Belagavi 

Belagavi witnessed a harrowing case where a mother, recently delivered, was forced out of her home after failing to repay a Rs 5 lakh loan. The lenders even auctioned off her house, demanding Rs 7.5 lakh.

Ramanagara 

In Ramanagara, a woman, relentlessly pursued by micro-financiers, was compelled to sell her kidney for Rs 2.5 lakh to settle her debts.

These heartbreaking incidents have triggered outrage in the state, with Home Minister Dr. G Parameshwara acknowledging the severity of the situation. Stunned by the deaths and personal tragedies, he assured the public that a legal solution would be sought and promised to discuss the matter with the Chief Minister to prevent further tragedies.