A large number of women have been economically and sexually exploited by money lenders

AIDWA Delegation submitted memorandum to NCW

The AIDWA Central Executive Committee, meeting in Delhi on December 17 & 18th strongly condemned the call money racket that has come to light in Andhra Pradesh. A large number of women have been economically and sexually exploited by money lenders charging unserious rates. AIDWA has been fighting for arrest and punishment of the offenders and protection for the victims.

A memorandum was submitted to the NCW, asking for immediate intervention.

A copy of the memorandum

To,

The Chairperson,

NCW,

New Delhi.

Sub: To take stern action against call money exploiters and to give protection and compensation for the women victims.

Dear Lalitha ji,

As you know, a massive sex racket linked to call money has been exposed in Andhra Pradesh last week. Already 87 people were arrested who belong to different political parties, and it is clear that there are top politicians and police officers in this racket. One of the shadow corporators of the Vijaywada city is already in custody. Even though police are doing their best, but many hindrances are there. As it is a very big racket, and political leaders who have close links with MLAs and MPs are involved, Judicial enquiry with sitting Judge is necessary and also an efficient enquiry team is needed. A speedy trial is also necessary.

The women are exploited sexually as they could not pay the higher interest rates which range from 60% to 180%. The women were used not only for their sexual lust but were also black mailed by using their videos.

The call money operators are grabbing the movable and immovable properties in a nigh handed manner. So we request you to please take necessary action so that all the property documents and also the illegal videos are handed over.

The victims need protection. They have to be paid compensation according to the 2013 ACT. The Andhra Pradesh Act for restriction of money lenders should be strictly implemented. The government has to come forward to provide the loan facility for the people who have no means for their needs regarding Health, Education and to continue their petty business. Some middle class people may be involved in these rackets to lend money to others at a profit having borrowed it themselves. Due to the new policies, health and education has become costly. And even daily living needs higher incomes. No proper loans either from banks or from Self Help Groups are forthcoming.

So the commission has to go into the basic reasons and should take remedies so that ordinary people do not fall in the web of usurious money lending. The government has to create awareness and necessary administrative structure in order to take stern action against this type of complaints.

One constable said that there are complaints every day about call money lenders threatening defaulters. But the police are under the influence of power and mafia. So redressal cell, with sincere officers in charge is required separately.

We urge upon the Commission to seek a report from the State Government and to put pressure on the government to take necessary steps in the matter.

D Rama Devi Malini Bhattacharya Jagmati Sangwan

(Secretary, AP State Committee) (President, AIDWA) (General Secretary, AIDWA)