The Hindu : Kerala / Thiruvananthapuram News : Spare a thought for beggars: Sridevi

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Friday, Jul 06, 2007
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Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram

Spare a thought for beggars: Sridevi

Staff Reporter

‘Saakshaatkaram,’ a project for their rehabilitation completes a year.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chairperson of State Women’s Commission D. Sridevi has called for an awareness campaign to fight against social evils such as dowry and liquor that can lead to the break-up of families.

She was speaking after inaugurating the first anniversary celebration of ‘Saakshaatkaram (Realisation),’ a project launched by the Thiruvananthapuram corporation last year aimed at prevention of begging and rehabilitation of beggars, in the city on Thursday.

“All human beings have the right to live with dignity and independence. Beggars are no different,” she said. “People who lead a luxurious life should spare a thought about setting apart some money for the rehabilitation of beggars,” Ms. Sridevi said.

Shelter home

Under the project beggars who seek alms in public places are rounded up by the police and are produced before the court before relocating them to a shelter home at Kothalam in Fort ward for rehabilitation.

At present there are around 50 inmates at the shelter home. The scheme is implemented in collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Orphanage Trust, which provides food and medical care to the inmates.

Mayor C. Jayan Babu who presided over the function said that beggars seek alms by working on the psychology of the public.

“People by nature are compassionate towards the sufferings of others. Beggars operate on this genial mentality and extract alms. Some even inflict bodily injuries to attract attention,” he said.

Training to inmates

Mr. Jayan Babu said the project had contributed to a great extent in minimising beggary in the city.

“Efforts will also be taken to provide vocational training to the rehabilitated inmates,” he added. The function was attended by G.R. Anil, chairman, corporation, health and education, standing committee.

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