M’luru: MCC Bank President arrested for allegedly abetting suicide of borrower

Team Udayavani, Dec 19, 2024, 9:36 AM IST

The President of MCC Bank has been arrested on charges of allegedly abetting the suicide of a borrower.

The borrower, identified as Manohar Pereira (47), a resident of Padav in the Mangaluru Rural Police Station limits, reportedly took his own life at home on Tuesday. Before committing suicide, Manohar recorded a video stating that the bank president was responsible for his death and posted it on social media.

Manohar Pereira, who had been living with his brother Jeevan Pereira, had taken a loan from the bank ten years ago to purchase a house. He was repaying the loan through his brother but missed payments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Owing to the non-payment, the bank had attached the house two years ago. Manohar was mentally disturbed over this and he had also suffered two heart attacks.

In February 2023, Sister Christine from a local charity transferred Rs15 lakh to Manohar’s bank account to help him clear the loan. After speaking with the bank president, Manohar provided a self-cheque for the payment. Six months ago, the possession of the house was returned to him. However, it was alleged that Rs 9 lakh of the Rs 15 lakh was withdrawn by the bank president through the self-cheque and thus the loan was partially unpaid.

Based on a complaint filed by Manohar’s brother Jeevan Pereira, a case has been registered under Section 108 of the Indian Penal Code said Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal.

Bank Clarifies on Allegations

MCC Bank has issued a statement denying the allegations and clarified that the statements made about the bank and its president were inaccurate. The bank urged the public and its customers not to believe false claims. The bank clarified that legal action had been taken for the recovery of the loan after the borrower failed to repay it within the stipulated time.

According to the bank, a concession on interest was offered to the borrower, and an opportunity to repay the loan was given. However, the borrower did not make any repayment. The bank’s General Manager, Sunil Menezes, further stated that the borrower had dealt with his savings account personally and there was no interference from the bank. He has committed the suicide due to his personal issues.

The investigation into the matter is ongoing.