Sun Feb 02 15:08:42 UTC 2025: ## Kannada Activist Demands Crackdown on Microfinance Companies

**Mysuru, February 2, 2025** – Former MLA and Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj led a protest in Mysuru on Sunday, demanding a government ordinance to curb the activities of microfinance companies in Karnataka. Nagaraj, along with his supporters, used a pestle as a symbolic protest, warning of a statewide agitation if action isn’t taken swiftly.

Nagaraj characterized microfinance as a “death trap” due to exorbitant interest rates and alleged involvement of rowdy elements in debt recovery from farmers. He further accused politicians of using microfinance companies to launder black money and exploit rural populations.

The activist called for a government inquiry or judicial probe into the companies’ operations, demanding compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of farmers who have died by suicide. He also criticized the Union Budget, deeming it lacking in benefits for Karnataka, and threatened protests and calls for the resignation of all BJP MPs from the state. All pro-Kannada organizations are expected to participate in the planned statewide agitation.

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