Debt-Ridden Farmer Ends Life In Koraput

Jeypore: Distressed over crop loss, a farmer allegedly committed suicide at Malimarla village under Pattangi police limits in Koraput district on Friday.

The deceased has been identified as Balaram Gunta.

His family members said he took the extreme step due to crop loss and the burden of debt incurred for agricultural activities. He was unable to repay the loan amount and had been under tremendous mental stress.

According to sources, Balaram consumed poison last night and immediately taken to the district headquarters. He, however, died this morning while undergoing treatment.

A similar incident that was reported from Balangir district on August 24. A farmer, who had attempted suicide by consuming pesticide, succumbed while being shifted to VIMSAR in Burla from Balangir district headquarters after his condition deteriorated.

He was identified as Bhagat Sagaria of Kuliadora village under Tureikela block in the district.

Bhagat had taken loan from money lenders of Kantabanji. He tried to end his life while he had gone to attend nature’s call near his house.

He was immediately rushed to the Kantabanji hospital and later referred to the Balangir district headquarters hospital after his deteriorated condition. He died while being shifted to the Burla Medical College.

Earlier, a farmer identified as Sarat Majhi had ended his life by consuming pesticide at Kameimunda village in the district.

Majhi’s family members alleged that he took the extreme step due to crop loss and loan burden.

Following his death, the BJP activists staged a road blockade at Turekela in the district on Wednesday. Hundreds of vehicles remained stranded for several hours after party activists blocked the busy stretch by placing the body of the deceased farmer on the road.

The agitators demanded had adequate compensation for the bereaved family.