Kasaragod: In a move that underscores the harsh realities faced by victims of the Endosulfan tragedy, Kerala Gramin Bank has initiated proceedings to attach the home and land of a survivor at Baliyoor here. The bank has gone to the extent of putting up a flex board in front of the house, declaring it for sale. The notice states that the property will be auctioned under the SARFAESI Act.

The house belongs to Thirtha, a resident of Baliyoor, who, along with her family, now faces the threat of eviction. The ordeal began with a Rs 2.5 lakh loan taken in 2016 for her child's medical treatment and home repairs. Despite repaying portions of the loan, mounting interest and compounding financial burdens—worsened by ongoing medical expenses—led to loan defaults.

In a strikingly insensitive move, the bank's notice even includes a contact number for interested buyers. Meanwhile, Manjeshwaram MLA A K M Ashraf has assured full support in settling the liability, offering a glimmer of hope to the distressed family.