Assam: Loan recovery agents harass poor family over unpaid installments, probe initiated

In a troubling development, North East Small Finance Bank, based in Dudhnai, has been accused of harassing the family of Lakheshwar Kalita, a resident of Lela Baniapara, over unpaid loan instalments. Allegations suggest that bank officials visited the Kalita household both during the day and late at night, pressuring them to clear overdue payments, further escalating the family's financial distress.

Lakheshwar Kalita had reportedly taken a loan of Rs 2 lakh from the North East Small Finance Bank. Despite facing financial hardships, Kalita and his family had been diligently repaying the loan according to the bank's terms. In an attempt to stabilize the family's income and continue with the repayments, Lakheshwar moved to Hyderabad for work, leaving his wife and child behind in Dudhnai.

However, recent financial struggles led to the family missing two instalments. This reportedly prompted aggressive recovery measures from bank employees. According to Kalita’s wife, a group of bank representatives, including two employees named Harivilas Boro and Disha Roy, visited their home at night, demanding immediate repayment. 

Fearing for her safety, Kalita’s wife went to the Dudhnai police station with her child, seeking protection from the alleged harassment. She expressed to local media that the relentless pressure from the bank officials had pushed her to the brink of despair, despite assurances that the pending dues would be settled soon.

The incident has raised serious concerns about the aggressive loan recovery practices by financial institutions, particularly when dealing with vulnerable and economically weaker sections of society. Local authorities are now expected to investigate the matter to ensure justice for the affected family.

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