Scores of people are forced to sleep on an empty stomach as a government order now makes it mandatory for poor, homeless residents at the city's largest night shelter to provide their mobile phone numbers to earn free meals.
Municipal staffers, who earlier helped out the hungry by listing their own phone numbers, have backed out since civic officials accused them of misuse.
The night shelter at Yadgar-e-Shahjahani Park distributes food from 10 AM to 3 PM and again from 7 to 8 PM.
People without phone numbers can no longer make the evening distribution list. Those in extreme poverty and drug addicts are the worst hit.
The staff are now seeking permission to feed individuals without a phone number or documents. They fear potential repercussions and job loss if they continue without official approval.Pankaj Rai, a shelter worker, said, "Out of humanity, we gave our phone numbers to feed the poor. Without permission, we risk action. We simply want to ensure that no one goes hungry."Nearly 150 to 200 people pay Rs 5 each to stay at this night shelter.
Until now, they were offered free meals. However, the shelter no longer serves evening meals to those without proof.
Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) Additional Commissioner Tina Yadav said, “The shelter distributes food regularly. We will investigate any irregularities and ensure proper processes are followed.”
