Starting January 1, 2025, Indore will register FIRs against people giving alms to beggars, aiming to curb begging and dismantle exploitative gangs. The district’s awareness campaign will run until December, with rehabilitation efforts for those in need. This initiative aligns with a national pilot project to make Indore and other Indian cities beggar-free.
Indore’s Initiative to End Begging
In a bold move to address the issue of begging, Indore district authorities have announced strict measures to discourage the practice. District Collector Ashish Singh stated that a citywide prohibition on begging is already in effect. To enforce this, an FIR will be registered against anyone caught giving alms to beggars starting January 1, 2025.
Awareness and Rehabilitation
Leading up to this enforcement, the administration is conducting an awareness campaign through December, urging residents to stop giving alms. Singh appealed to the public, emphasizing, “Do not become partners in the sin by encouraging begging.” Authorities have also been active in rehabilitating individuals involved in begging while dismantling exploitative gangs profiting from the practice.
A National Mission
This initiative is part of a larger national effort led by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The pilot project aims to make 10 Indian cities, including Indore, beggar-free. The plan involves a combination of legal measures, public awareness, and rehabilitation programs to address both the symptoms and root causes of begging.
What This Means for Indore
By adopting strict measures against begging and focusing on rehabilitation, Indore hopes to set an example for other cities. The initiative not only seeks to improve urban living standards but also aims to provide meaningful support to those exploited by begging gangs, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to urban development.
