In a heart-wrenching incident that sheds light on the dangers of online lending, a 22-year-old engineering student took his own life due to relentless harassment by agents representing a Chinese mobile application providing loans. The victim, identified as Tejas, was studying at Nitte Meenakshi College in Bengaluru.
Tejas had borrowed money from the ‘Slice and Kiss app but found himself unable to repay the loan. Tragically, instead of offering support or reasonable solutions, the app’s agents resorted to despicable tactics. They reportedly blackmailed Tejas, threatening to expose intimate photographs stored on his mobile phone if he failed to settle the debt.
Despite Tejas’s father, Gopinath, agreeing to repay the amount in installments, the agents continued their harassment. When Gopinath requested additional time to settle the outstanding debt, his plea fell on deaf ears.
On the day of the tragedy, Tejas received numerous distressing phone calls from the app’s agents. Overwhelmed and feeling cornered, he felt there was no way out but to end his life. In a heartbreaking note, he apologized to his parents and expressed his inability to cope with the mounting pressure.
This tragic incident serves as a wake-up call, shedding light on the potential risks associated with online lending platforms. It highlights the urgent need for robust regulations and consumer protection measures to ensure the well-being and safety of vulnerable individuals who may fall victim to harassment and exploitation.
Governments, technology companies, and financial institutions must work together to address these issues, ensuring that borrowers are protected and that responsible lending practices are upheld. Let this heartbreaking incident be a catalyst for change, prompting a comprehensive review of lending app practices and creating a safer environment for those seeking financial assistance.
