[ Sajith M ]

A few weeks ago, volunteers from Manav Sena Trust, an NGO, approached Shanta, a beggar in Mulund, and offered her an opportunity to make a living as a maid.

At first, Shanta, who sits near a temple on Station Road, jumped at the offer. But days later when she checked in at Sudha Enterprises, her would-be employers, she changed her mind. Why? The money was just not good enough!

“They told me I would work at a good household. But when I learnt I would get only Rs 500 a month, I decided not to go, as I make Rs 300-Rs 400 a day begging,” said Shanta, who has since returned to her old spot on Station Road.

From Beggars CAN be choosers published in Mid Day (September 14, Mumbai)

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