Mysuru, 20 JUNE

A shocking case of harassment linked to microfinance lenders has surfaced in Jalahalli, T Narasipura taluk of Mysuru in the State where a seven-year-old girl was allegedly abducted by two executives from Bajaj Finance Limited. The girl's parents, Prameela and Naveen, had taken out a loan of Rs 30,000 and had defaulted on their 14th instalment of Rs 1,200 after successfully making 13 payments.

In an alarming turn of events, the two executives visited the family's home when they were unable to locate the child's mother. They reportedly took the girl from her grandparents' house in a neighbouring village in Malavalli taluk, citing the non-payment of the loan as justification. Witnesses claim that the executives scolded the young girl for her parents’ financial shortcomings.

The incident only came to light when it was reported to the Child Welfare Committee, prompting a police investigation into the alleged kidnapping. The girl's parents filed a complaint with local authorities, and an FIR is expected to be lodged shortly.

This incident has ignited outrage in the community, especially in light of the Karnataka Micro Finance (Prevention of Coercive Actions) Ordinance 2025, which imposes severe penalties—up to ten years in prison and fines of Rs 5 lakh—for coercive practices by microfinance companies. The actions of the executives have drawn widespread condemnation, particularly in the home district of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah