Authorities enforcing a beggar-free city campaign in Indore were left stunned after discovering that a man found begging in a busy jewellery market owned multiple houses, vehicles and had even lent money to jewellers at interest.
As part of the ongoing drive, officials have so far detained nearly 6,500 people found begging across the city, issued citations and sent them away after counselling. During an inspection of the city’s jewellery bazaar, officials noticed a differently-abled man identified as Mangilal begging while moving around on a two-wheeler.
When questioned about his background, Mangilal’s disclosure of assets left officials momentarily speechless. He revealed that he owns three houses in Indore, including one allotted through the Red Cross for the differently-abled. In addition, he has purchased three auto-rickshaws, which are rented out for income.
Mangilal also owns a car worth around Rs. 8 lakh for travel outside the city and employs a driver for the vehicle. Adding to the surprise, officials learned that he had lent money on interest to jewellery shop owners in the same market where he was found begging and was collecting the dues regularly.
Authorities have launched a detailed inquiry to assess the full extent of Mangilal’s assets and income sources. The revelation has sparked debate on organised begging and misuse of welfare schemes, even as the administration steps up efforts to eliminate begging from public spaces in Indore.
