HDK hits out at Karnataka government for not taking action on complaints against microfinance firms in State

H.D. Kumaraswamy criticizes Congress government for inaction against illegal microfinance firms causing harassment in Karnataka.

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Friday lashed out at the Congress government over its inaction to the complaints of alleged harassment from the microfinance institutions in several parts of the State.

“The government should have taken action when the first case of alleged harassment was reported from Chamarajanagar,” Mr. Kumaraswamy told reporters in Mysuru.

Women deserted their village as they were unable to bear the alleged harassment from the microfinance firms. Instead of giving moral support to the victims, the government did nothing and left the people to suffer at the hands of the firms, he charged.

The Minister said illegal microfinance firms are thriving in the State, and the government has turned a blind eye. The firms are running their businesses without licence but the government has done nothing to curb such activities. It has now convened the meeting on the issue, he stated.

In Mandya alone, there are over 40-45 unlicensed microfinance firms. “I spoke to the deputy commissioner of Mandya on the complaints of harassment from the firms. The officer said they do not have powers as only 15 of 60 microfinance firms legally operate.”

Hitting out at Chief Minister Siddaramaiah questioning his style of governance, Mr. Kumaraswamy said women are sending their “mangalsutras” to the CM and the Home Minister seeking justice over the alleged harassment from the finances.

While demanding good governance in the State, he said the administration has collapsed. The Congress leaders are busy with their affairs and leadership issues, ignoring the people’s sufferings. The leaders claim to be united and together. “Who wants whether they are together or not? The people want good governance and relief to their woes.”