In a humanitarian initiative aimed at making the city free from begging, Jabalpur Municipal Corporation (JMC) is running a special drive to rehabilitate people engaged in begging and connect them with mainstream society. The drive is being carried out under the State Government’s vision and the Smile Project. Municipal Commissioner Ramprakash Ahirwar said special rescue and counselling operations are being conducted regularly at public places, squares and religious sites across the city. Appealing to citizens, the Municipal Commissioner urged people not to encourage begging. Instead, efforts should be made to link such people with education and employment so they can earn a livelihood with dignity, he said. Officials also warned that begging or encouraging it is a punishable offence under Sections 360 and 361 of the Municipal Corporation Act, 1956.

 

Legal provisions include imprisonment and fines for violations within municipal limits. Deputy Commissioner Ankita Jain said that during the latest campaign, a total of 14 persons were rescued. Of these, eight were shifted to JMC run shelter homes where arrangements for food and accommodation have been made. Six others were counselled and based on their willingness and family background, were safely sent back to their native places. Jain said the JMC administration’s aim is not merely to remove beggars from the streets but to ensure their long term rehabilitation. Counselling sessions are being conducted to motivate them to give up begging and adopt a dignified life. Efforts are also underway to link capable persons with employment opportunities so they can become self reliant and reintegrate into society.