The Biz Reporter
Chandrapur/Mumbai, Dec 17, 2025:
In a disturbing case that has sparked outrage across the state, a farmer from Maharashtra’s Chandrapur district has alleged that he was forced to sell his kidney to repay crippling debt after a small loan of ₹1 lakh spiralled to ₹74 lakh due to exorbitant interest and continuous harassment by moneylenders. (The Times of India)
From Farm Losses to Extreme Desperation
Roshan Sadashiv Kude, a resident of Minthur village in Nagbhid taluka, borrowed ₹1 lakh from private lenders in 2021 to start a dairy business after years of crop failures and financial stress. However, before he could stabilise his venture, his cattle died and his agricultural earnings collapsed, leaving him unable to repay the original loan. (The Times of India)
According to Kude’s statement to police and multiple news reports, the lenders charged illegal, steep interest that caused his debt to balloon to around ₹74 lakh. Even after selling farmland, his tractor and other assets, he remained unable to clear the dues amid constant pressure and threats. (The Times of India)
Kidney Sale Abroad
Faced with relentless harassment and with no other options, Kude said one of the moneylenders advised him to sell a kidney to repay part of the debt. He was taken to Kolkata for medical tests and later to Cambodia, where his kidney was removed and sold for about ₹8 lakh. Despite this drastic step, lenders continued to pursue him for unpaid dues. (www.ndtv.com)
Police Action and Custody of Lenders
Following his formal complaint at Brahmapuri police station, authorities have arrested six private moneylenders allegedly involved in the case. They have been booked on charges including criminal conspiracy, extortion, harassment and unlawful lending practices. Police said investigation is ongoing. (The Times of India)
Appeal for Justice
Kude has appealed to the Maharashtra government for swift action and fair justice, warning that continued inaction could push him and his family to extreme protest measures, including self-immolation at the Mantralaya in Mumbai, the state secretariat. (www.ndtv.com)
This shocking incident has reignited debate on the agrarian crisis, unregulated micro-credit practices and farmer protection mechanisms in India, amid decades of rural distress and debt-driven tragedies. (en.wikipedia.org)
