Two days after a couple set themselves and their children ablaze following alleged harassment by moneylenders, Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami on Wednesday directed all the district collectors and police superintendents to take strict against those who charge heavy interest.
Palaniswami said the J Jayalalithaa government had in 2003 enacted the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Charging Exorbitant Interest Act. This was designed to prevent moneylenders from exploiting the poor. There is also a provision of settling disputes through courts, he said. The chief minister also urged people to approach officials for redressal without fear.
“I have directed the district collectors and police officials to take quick action on such complaints,” Palaniswami said.
The couple — Isakki Muthu (30) and Subbulakshmi (28) — set themselves and their two daughters, Mathi Saranya (4) and Atchya Bharanika (1.5 years), on fire on Monday.
Following the incident, the police arrested the accused — Dhalavai Raj, his wife Muthu Lakshmi and Dalavai Raj’s father Kalimuthu.
Two police officials who allegedly threatened the couple have also been suspended.
{{/usCountry}}Two police officials who allegedly threatened the couple have also been suspended.
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