BHOPAL - MADHYA PRADESH: The Bhopal Collector, Kaushlendra Vikram Singh, has announced a complete ban on begging in public places across the district. This order, issued on Monday, covers under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, which allows authorities to take action in cases of public nuisance or potential danger.
The order warns that anyone caught begging or helping beggars, whether by giving money or buying goods,will face legal action under Section 223 of BNSS 2023.
The Collector said, reports from media outlets see that people, often with their families, are begging at traffic signals, religious sites, tourist spots, and other public areas. This not only defies government efforts to control begging but also disrupts traffic flow. The order shows that many beggars come from other states and cities, and some have criminal records. It also points out that begging is often linked to drug use and other illegal activities.
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The order stresses that criminal acts are sometimes carried out under the cover of begging, and beggars at busy traffic points can cause accidents. Calling begging a social evil, the government has issued multiple instructions to curb it over time.
Begging is now strictly prohibited throughout the Bhopal district, and giving alms or purchasing anything from beggars is also banned. The order takes effect immediately, and violators will face legal consequences.
To support those affected, the administration has arranged a shelter home for beggars at the Community Health Center in Kolar to help with their rehabilitation.