Indore: Officials in Indore have uncovered an unexpected case during a state welfare drive aimed at removing begging from city streets. A man known locally as Mangilal, long seen begging in the old bazaar, turned out to own property and assets worth crores of rupees.
Mangilal spent years seated on a small wheeled cart, drawing sympathy due to physical disability. Passersby gave coins and notes each day. Officials from the Women and Child Development Department approached him under the Beggar-Free Indore अभियान and took him to a rehabilitation centre for counselling.
During routine questioning, Mangilal disclosed details of wealth that surprised the team. He said daily earnings from begging ranged between ₹500 and ₹1,000. He also said he owned several properties. Verification confirmed ownership of a three storey house in Bhagat Singh Nagar, a 600 square metre residence in Shiv Nagar, and a flat in the Alwas area. A Swift Dzire car stood parked near one of the houses.
Officials found other income sources. Mangilal owns three rickshaws rented out each day. He has also lent money to a goldsmith in the same market and receives regular interest.
Officers said the case shows the need for verification before welfare support. They said the aim is to reach genuine beneficiaries and discourage habitual begging.
Members of the welfare team said the case should not lead to blanket suspicion. Many people on the streets depend fully on alms due to disability or abandonment.
Mangilal remains at the welfare centre while authorities decide further steps. The case has prompted a review of how charity, monitoring, and rehabilitation work in the city.
