Trichy: A joint enforcement drive by the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), labour department, and police has resulted in the rescue of 10 beggars and two child labourers in Trichy city. The operation, conducted on Tuesday, targeted areas where begging activity had been reported to be on the rise.
Details of the Rescue Operation
The synchronized inspection covered key locations including the Central bus terminus, K K Nagar bus stand, and Mannarpuram traffic signal junction. Over the course of the day-long drive, officials rescued six male and four female beggars. Among the 10 individuals counselled, one male and one female beggar revealed that they had left their homes and were living at the K K Nagar bus stop and other public spots, relying on food donated by passersby.
“We contacted their family members, who arrived and agreed to take care of them. Several of those rescued have disabilities. They agreed to stay in safe shelters recognised by the state government,” a senior official said. Officials added that the rescued beggars were mentally healthy, understood Tamil, and responded to questions.
Child Labourers Rescued
During the drive, the team also rescued two boys—one who had completed Class IX and another who had completed Class XI. They were employed at a mechanic shop in K K Nagar. Their parents reportedly asked the shop owner to employ the boys since they could not manage them at home during the summer holidays. “Two boys were produced before the CWC, their parents and the shopkeeper were warned and sensitised about the offence of employing minor boys,” the official added.
Future Plans and Helpline
The Trichy district administration has urged locals to report begging activities via WhatsApp helpline 63691-03413. In the coming weeks, the drive may focus on commercial streets such as Thillai Nagar and Sastri Road.
