Auto-rickshaw driver ends life after failing to re-pay debt

Thanjavur : An auto-rickshaw driver has allegedly committed suicide after he failed to re-pay his loans amid coronavirus lockdown.

Identified as M Raghupathy, the auto driver is from Kumbakonam. The 45-year-old man used to live in Sri Nagar Colony, where his dead body was found hanging from the ceiling on June 8 with a suicide note.

In his last note, the auto-driver blamed COVID-19 behind his traumatic situation and decision to end his life. Kumbakonam West Police recovered the note in which he has mentioned that he was unable to pay his loans and requested officials not to pressurize his wife to pay back the money but instead arrange for help.

"Since the train service was grounded, I was not able to get passengers for the last two months. Monthly EMI of the auto, interest for my borrowings, loan due to Self Help Group is remaining unpaid. Since I have no way to settle my dues, I take an extreme step," the letter said

It has also been learned that he has written a separate note for his relatives asking for their help to his wife and children.

He is survived by his wife, daughter and son.