Bhopal imposes complete ban on begging in public spaces; Sets up shelters for rehabilitation

Bhopal District Collector Kaushelendra Vikram Singh has enforced a comprehensive ban on begging in public spaces within the city. The order, which was signed on Monday, prohibits begging in areas such as streets, markets, rotaries, traffic signals, and places of worship. It also bans the act of giving alms or buying goods from beggars. This action is implemented under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which provides legal grounds for maintaining public order and safety.

To ensure compliance with the new regulation, the Bhopal administration has mandated the installation of CCTV cameras at strategic public locations. These include markets, busy rotaries, traffic signals, and religious sites. The surveillance system aims to monitor public spaces and identify violations of the ban. CCTV footage will be used to track any individuals involved in begging or engaging with beggars, helping authorities to enforce the order effectively.

The Bhopal administration’s decision comes in response to increasing concerns over the disruptions caused by begging. The order highlights that begging leads to traffic congestion, particularly at key intersections and public spaces, and contributes to public safety risks. The government has also noted that many beggars in the city are believed to come from other regions and states, with some individuals having criminal backgrounds or being involved in substance abuse, which further complicates the situation.

In addition to the enforcement measures, the administration has arranged for the relocation of beggars to a designated shelter. The Community Health Centre in Kolar Township has been identified as the "Bhikshu Grah" (shelter), where beggars will be provided with accommodation and support services. This shelter is part of a rehabilitation effort to address the needs of displaced individuals, offering them a safe environment away from public spaces.

Bhopal’s action follows in the footsteps of Indore, which implemented a similar ban on begging in July 2024. Indore also introduced strict measures, including lodging FIRs against those found begging or providing alms to beggars. Both cities are part of Madhya Pradesh’s broader initiative to tackle the issue of begging, aiming to improve public order, cleanliness, and safety in urban areas.

The order also includes legal provisions for those who violate the ban. Individuals found begging or offering charity to beggars will face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Violators could face a penalty of up to ₹2,500, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. The Bhopal administration has emphasized the importance of enforcing these regulations, particularly with the upcoming Global Investors Summit scheduled for February 24-25, which is expected to attract national and international delegates to the city.