Keralam, 03 November (H.S.)

A former Keralam throwball player who once represented the state at national-level tournaments is now struggling to survive with her family, including two young children, in a makeshift shed after their house was seized by a bank over unpaid loans.

The plight of 29-year-old Aswathy, a native of Nellikkunnu in Chengalayi, has come to light in Taliparamba, highlighting the financial hardships faced by a former sportsperson.

Aswathy represented Kerala in throwball competitions for nearly seven years, participating in tournaments held in Chandigarh, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai.

After graduating from Kannur Women's College, she worked temporarily at a college in Mattannur. However, she lost her job following maternity leave and subsequently lost her employment as a throwball coach.

The six-member family comprises Aswathy, her husband Nithin (32), their daughters Akritha (6) and Amiya (2), and Nithin's parents, Thomas (56) and Sunila (51).

The family's troubles began after they availed themselves of a loan from the district cooperative bank to construct a house at Thottaramba.

While the house was partially completed, successive medical emergencies pushed the family into financial distress.

Nithin suffered serious leg injuries after falling while cutting a tree, while Thomas became seriously ill following a venomous bite.

With both men unable to continue their daily-wage employment, the family lost its principal source of income and defaulted on loan repayments.

Three months ago, bank authorities reportedly sealed the house following recovery proceedings.

Since then, the family has been living in a small, unsecured shed adjoining their house, with just one cot and barely enough space for household belongings.

Youth Congress state general secretary Rahul Vechiyottu has brought their plight to the attention of MP K. Sudhakaran and MLA T.K. Govindan.

The family now hopes for urgent intervention to regain a secure home and rebuild their lives.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman