Begging, giving alms banned in Bhopal

Begging in public places has been banned in Madhya Pradesh’s Bhopal, reported The Indian Express.

“Individuals engaging in begging, either alone or with their families, not only violate government directives aimed at curbing the practice but also disrupt public movement and traffic,” The Indian Express quoted from the order.

The administration in Madhya Pradesh’s capital claimed an increased “risk of accidents” at traffic signals because of obstructions created by the beggars on roads. The authorities also claimed that many beggars hailed from other cities and states, “with some having criminal records”.

A “significant number of beggars are reportedly involved in substance abuse or other illicit activities, while organised begging networks often serve as fronts for criminal operations,” the order read.