Aligarh: An e-rickshaw driver in Uttar Pradesh, resorts to an extreme protest, putting his son ‘on sale,’ citing harassment by moneylenders. The shocking incident raises questions about financial stress and the vulnerability of borrowers.
Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, October 27, 2023 – In a heart-wrenching incident in Aligarh district, Uttar Pradesh, an e-rickshaw driver resorted to an extreme protest by putting his son “on sale.” Rajkumar, the victim, took this drastic step due to relentless harassment by moneylenders in the region. Rajkumar, along with his wife and daughter, staged the silent protest at the Gandhi Park intersection in the city, holding a placard around his neck that read, “I have to sell my son, my son is for sale.” This desperate act was intended to draw attention to his plight and demand justice.
As news of the family’s protest spread, a crowd began to gather, causing a stir in the area. Concerned individuals tried to persuade Rajkumar to end his protest. However, the determined man, with the placard around his neck and a pot nearby, continued to ask people to buy his son. When speaking to the media, Rajkumar explained that he earns a living by driving an e-rickshaw, but he is burdened by heavy debts.
He described how moneylenders would frequently intimidate and harass him, resorting to physical violence and even evicting him, along with his family, from their home. To add to his troubles, the moneylenders had also seized his e-rickshaw. Rajkumar recounted his efforts to seek justice from the Mahua Kheda police station, where he had been seeking an FIR and action against those responsible.
Feeling let down by the lack of progress and response from the police, Rajkumar felt compelled to resort to the extreme step of putting his son ‘on sale.’ Local authorities were soon alerted to the situation, prompting a police team to rush to the scene. The victim was taken to the police station, where he received assurances of justice and was subsequently allowed to return home.
Police have initiated an investigation into the alleged harassment by the moneylenders. This incident highlights the pressing issue of financial stress and harassment faced by borrowers, shedding light on the vulnerabilities and hardships that individuals like Rajkumar experience when dealing with moneylenders.
