In a significant move to banned begging in the city, Bhopal Collector and District Magistrate Shri Kaushalendra Vikram Singh has issued an official order under. In the order it stated that legal action will taken against the beggar and the people who give alms.
The action is taken to make the city free from traffic.
On February 3, Bhopal collector has issued a notice under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code 2023, for completely banning all forms of begging across the district’s jurisdiction.
According to order, giving alms to beggars or purchasing any goods from them is strictly prohibited, those who will violates the give rule will face legal action. The administration has observed that begging at traffic signals, intersections, religious places and tourist spots disrupts public movement and also poses safety risks.
To rehabilitate beggars, the Community Health Center in Kolar has designated as a shelter home. The district administration will oversee efforts to relocate individuals found begging and provide them with necessary support.
The order has been issued with immediate effect, and anyone violating it will be prosecuted under Section 223 of the Indian Civil Security Code 2023.
Authorities have appealed to citizens to channel their charitable efforts towards recognized social welfare programs rather than direct almsgiving, ensuring long-term rehabilitation and support for the underprivileged.
Order for banning begging in Bhopal
The Order stated, “Through newspapers and various other sources, it has come to notice that individuals engaged in begging, either alone or with their families, are frequently seen at traffic signals, intersections, religious sites, tourist spots, and other public places. This act not only defies government orders aimed at controlling begging but also obstructs general public movement and traffic flow.
It has also been observed that many individuals involved in begging in Bhopal district belong to other states and cities, some of whom have criminal backgrounds. A significant number of beggars are also engaged in substance abuse or other unlawful activities. Additionally, many criminal activities are carried out under the guise of begging. Begging at traffic signals poses a risk of accidents. It is widely recognized that begging is a social evil, and the government has issued several directives from time to time to curb this practice.
Therefore, exercising the powers conferred under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Security Code 2023, all forms of begging are completely prohibited within the entire revenue jurisdiction of Bhopal district. Giving alms to beggars or purchasing any items from them is strictly prohibited. Any person found providing alms or purchasing goods from beggars will face legal action for violating this order.
To rehabilitate beggars, the Community Health Center in Kolar has been designated as a shelter home for them.
This order is addressed to the general public. Given the current circumstances, it is neither feasible nor possible to provide prior notice of this order to every individual. Instead, it is being communicated through public announcements, newspapers, and electronic media. Therefore, this order is issued unilaterally.
As per Section 163(2) of the Indian Civil Security Code 2023, this order takes immediate effect. Any violation of this order will lead to legal action under Section 223 of the Indian Civil Security Code 2023.
This order has been issued on 03/02/2025, bearing my signature and official seal.”
