Anganwadi worker’s suicide sparks outrage against private banks

Amalapuram – Andhra Pradesh: Geddam Mani Kumari, an Anganwadi worker in Amalapuram, died after alleged harassment by private bank officials, prompting demands for justice and accountability from CITU leaders.

Geddam Mani Kumari, employed in the Amalapuram Project, Allavaram Sector (Code No. 71), faced harassment from officials of private banks. The officials reportedly visited her home, subjecting her to public humiliation. Unable to cope, Kumari consumed poison ten days ago and was admitted to KIMS Hospital. She succumbed to death on April 11, while undergoing treatment.

CITU demands justice

Upon learning of the tragedy, leaders from CITU, including District President G Durga Prasad, Secretary Nukala Balaram, and Agricultural Workers Association State Vice President Karem Venkateswara Rao, visited the Government Hospital where Kumari’s body was brought for postmortem. Joined by Anganwadi workers Daiva Krupa, Sushila, and Dhanalakshmi, they paid their respects and met with the family to offer support. The leaders condemned the banks’ actions, attributing Kumari’s death to their relentless harassment.

CITU has called for an immediate government inquiry into the incident, urging strict action against the banks. They demand that Five Star, Kotak, IDFC, Bajaj, and Canara be held accountable for their role in the harassment. Additionally, CITU has requested an ex-gratia payment of Rs 25 lakh for Kumari’s family to provide financial relief and ensure justice. They emphasized the need for systemic measures to protect vulnerable workers from such predatory practices by financial institutions.

Community impact

The incident has sent shockwaves through Amalapuram, highlighting the plight of low-income workers targeted by aggressive loan recovery tactics. CITU leaders warned that unchecked harassment by private banks could lead to further tragedies, pressing the government to intervene swiftly to safeguard workers’ dignity and rights.