Farmer ends life over loan harassment; TN Farmers’ Association demands action

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Farmers' Association has strongly condemned the alleged act of a private bank abetting a farmer’s suicide by inflicting harassment and public humiliation over delayed loan repayment.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the association's general secretary, Sami Natarajan, said that Vadivelu, a farmer from Pithiyampalayam Keelakkadu village in Kottavadi panchayat, Valapadi taluk, had taken a loan of Rs 5 lakh from the Valapadi branch of the private bank for agricultural purposes. Though he had been consistent in repaying up to 30 instalments, a delay in the recent one reportedly led to threats from bank officials.

Bank officials reportedly visited the farmer's home On April 30 and verbally abused him in the presence of villagers, causing him severe mental distress. Vadivelu later killed himself consuming pesticides.

The farmers association said that a protest has been planned in Valapadi on May 5 to press the attention of the government over such issues. The farmer association leader pointed out to the newly passed State law prohibiting coercive loan recovery methods. "The fact that this incident occurred even before the law could come into effect shows the urgency of enforcement," Natarajan said.

While the police have filed a case of abetment to suicide, the Association demanded that it be altered to a murder case under the new law. It also called for compensation to be paid to the bereaved family and for the outstanding loan to be written off.

Discussing suicides can be triggering for some. However, suicides are preventable. In case you feel distressed by the content or know someone in distress, call --- Sneha, Chennai: 91-44-2464 0050, 91-44-2464 0060; Maithri, Cochin: +91 239 6272; Sumaitri, New Delhi: 2338 9090; Aasra, Mumbai: 9820466726; Fortis MentalHealth: 8376804102; Tele MANAS: 14416, or download Tele MANAS mobile app