While stepping outside, it's common to encounter beggars at intersections and along the roads. Some even follow pedestrians, insisting on receiving alms. Many of them rely on begging due to financial hardships. However, not all beggars are impoverished, as a recent shocking incident from Chhattisgarh reveals.
In this case, a woman begging on the street turned out to be quite affluent. One of her sons has settled abroad, while the other is a successful businessman. When questioned about her reasons for begging, both the onlookers and officials were taken aback. Let's delve into her story.
In India, begging is classified as a criminal offense. Despite this, it's rare to find a city without beggars. Many resort to begging out of necessity and poverty, while others do so out of habit. Interestingly, some beggars earn a substantial income through this practice. Recently, a surprising case emerged from Raipur, where a woman beggar was found to be wealthy during a rehabilitation campaign.
During the rehabilitation initiative, officials encountered a woman begging at a Raipur intersection. Upon inquiry, they discovered she belonged to a prosperous family. She owns a house where her son, a large grocery store owner, resides. Her other son works abroad. Additionally, she rents out three rooms in her house, earning a monthly income of ₹8,000.
The woman also has a bank account with a significant balance. Officials were curious as to why someone from such a well-off family would beg on the streets. When asked, she clarified that she does not beg out of choice but due to health issues. She frequents temples and mosques for assistance. Authorities have initiated counseling for her and taken her to a rehabilitation center, stating that they are gathering more information about her situation.
Officials noted that a gang has formed in the city that engages in begging. They mentioned that those brought to the rehabilitation center often deny their begging activities. This denial is likely a tactic to be released quickly so they can resume begging and continue earning. Authorities believe these individuals are making substantial amounts of money through begging, which is why they are reluctant to leave the practice.