Indore Ban Begging – Starting January 1, 2025, residents and visitors in Indore will face legal consequences for giving money to beggars. The city administration has announced that individuals caught handing out alms will have a First Information Report (FIR) filed against them, marking a significant step in its effort to curb begging in public spaces.
Strict Action Against Almsgiving
District Collector Ashish Singh confirmed the crackdown, stating, “Our awareness campaign against begging will continue until the end of December. From January 1 onward, if anyone is found giving alms, an FIR will be registered against them.” This initiative aims to discourage the public from enabling begging, which officials claim is often tied to organized illegal networks.
Why the Ban?
The decision to implement such strict measures stems from the need to address organized begging syndicates and rehabilitate those forced into this lifestyle.
“Many beggars are part of illegal groups and are compelled into begging. We have dismantled several such networks and provided rehabilitation to affected individuals,” Singh explained. He urged residents to refrain from giving alms, calling it “a sin” that perpetuates the problem.
Indore’s Anti-Begging Drive and the SMILE Project
The anti-begging drive in Indore is part of the national SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) project, launched by the Union Ministry of Social Justice. This initiative seeks to create beggar-free cities through long-term rehabilitation and support programs.
The SMILE project offers:
- Medical care
- Education
- Skill training
- Job opportunities
The focus is on empowering individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence. “Rather than merely removing people from the streets, SMILE aims to address the root causes of begging,” Singh emphasized.
The Larger Picture
Although the ban on giving money to beggars may discourage organized begging, experts stress the importance of tackling the underlying issues of poverty and lack of opportunity.
The Ministry of Social Justice has described begging as “the most extreme form of poverty” and acknowledged that punitive measures alone cannot eradicate the problem. “For many, begging is not a choice but a means of survival. While FIRs may deter the act temporarily, comprehensive support systems are essential for lasting change,” the Ministry stated.
Public Awareness Campaign
In the weeks leading up to the ban, the Indore administration is running a citywide awareness campaign to educate residents about the issue. Officials are encouraging people to support rehabilitation programs instead of giving money to beggars.
As Indore takes bold steps to address begging, the city continues to set an example with its innovative approaches to urban challenges. However, the success of this initiative will hinge on the effectiveness of the SMILE program and the willingness of residents to cooperate with the new measures. Indore’s journey toward becoming a beggar-free city is a test case for other urban centers grappling with similar issues.