New Law Effective from January 1, 2025
Starting January 1, 2025, giving money to beggars in Indore will become a punishable offense, with an FIR (First Information Report) being filed against violators. This announcement comes as part of the city’s effort to curb begging and address the organized networks behind it.
District Collector Ashish Singh confirmed, “Our awareness campaign against begging will go on in the city till the end of December. If any person is found giving alms from January 1, a First Information Report (FIR) will also be registered against him/her.”
Why is Indore Taking This Step?
The strict measures are part of an initiative to make Indore cleaner and free of organized begging. Many beggars, according to authorities, are victims of illegal syndicates that exploit them.
“We’ve already broken up several such groups, and a lot of individuals have been rehabilitated,” said District Collector Ashish Singh. He also appealed to residents, urging them to refrain from giving money to beggars. “I appeal to all residents of Indore not to become partners in the sin by giving alms to people,” he added.
Also Read: ‘I want to kidnap you’: Gurgaon resident shares Uber driver’s frightening text
Indore’s Anti-Begging Drive
The move is part of the government’s SMILE project (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise), which aims to rehabilitate those engaged in begging and offer them sustainable alternatives.
Key Goals of the SMILE Project:
- Rehabilitation: Providing medical care, education, and skill training to beggars.
- Employment Opportunities: Helping individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
- Long-Term Solutions: Addressing the root causes of begging rather than temporarily removing people from the streets.
The Bigger Problem: Organized Begging Networks
Authorities revealed that many beggars are forced into this life as part of illegal organized groups. By cracking down on these networks, the city hopes to tackle begging at its source.
Several such groups have already been dismantled, and individuals rescued from these conditions are being rehabilitated through government initiatives.
Also Read: Uber Launches Women-Only Bike Ride Service ‘Moto Women’ in Bengaluru
Challenges in Addressing Begging
While the FIR system may discourage giving alms, it does not solve the deeper issues. The Ministry of Social Justice acknowledges that begging represents “the most extreme form of poverty.”
“For most people, begging isn’t a choice — it’s survival. FIRs might stop the problem for now, but without real support, it won’t go away,” a Ministry statement said.
Indore’s Progressive Initiatives
Known for its clean streets and development-focused policies, Indore is now extending its efforts to make the city beggar-free. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of improving urban living standards while helping marginalized individuals reintegrate into society.
By combining strict measures with rehabilitation programs, Indore’s administration aims to balance enforcement with compassion, ensuring long-term solutions for one of society’s most vulnerable groups.
Also Read: Ustad Zakir Hussain: The Life and Legacy of an Indian Music Icon
