Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Jun 21: A private bank branch in Baikampady has deducted the Covid-19 relief package amount credited to the bank account of a poor auto-rickshaw driver in spite of the chief minister BS Yediyurappa's directions over not to deduct the amount of Covid-19 relief package against any loans.

Unfortunately, the bank deducted the meagre amount towards a housing loan in this case.

Abdul Basheer is running auto-rickshaw to feed his family. Due to lockdown, following the Covid-19 pandemic, Basheer was not able to run his auto. Four years ago, by availing Rs 4 lakh loan from the bank, he had purchased a house at Surinje, Surathkal. He regularly paid Rs 13,165 EMI for the loan he had borrowed.

It is said that Basheer had inquired the bank staff, whether this time there is a moratorium for EMI repayment. The staff also assured him that as he was regular in payment, he need not worry though he did not pay the instalment for one or two months. But soon, Rs 2,728 balance from his account, was debited on the EMI due date to leave zero balance in his account.

On Friday, Basheer received two SMS, one regarding the Rs 3,000 of the Covid-19 relief amount being credited to his account and the same amount being deducted towards his housing loan.

Speaking to an English daily, Basheer said, "My two sons are at home without any income following the lockdown. It has become very difficult for my family of four members. To become free from debt, I have decided to sell my house."

The bank manager denied the allegation and stated that the amount has been deducted due to auto-debit procedure.