'Digital beggar' in Guwahati uses PhonePe QR code to seek alms: 'Technology truly knows no bounds'

A visually impaired beggar in Assam's Guwahati was recently found asking for alms with the help of a PhonePe QR code card slung around his neck. A video of him receiving online payment from another man highlighted technology's power to transcend socioeconomic barriers.

"Stumbled upon a remarkable scene in bustling Guwahati – a beggar seamlessly integrating digital transactions into his plea for help, using PhonePe! Technology truly knows no bounds," Congress leader Gaurav Somani captioned the clip on X. "It's a testament to the power of technology to transcend barriers, even those of socio-economic status. A thought-provoking moment that speaks volumes about the evolving landscape of compassion and innovation."

In the video, the beggar approaches two people in a car, and one of them scans the PhonePe QR code to send him Rs 10. The beggar, who said his name is Dashrath, holds his phone close to his ear to hear the announcement of the money being deposited in his account.

Dashrath, however, isn't the only one who has switched to digital payments to improve his earnings. In New Delhi, Ayesha Sharma, a 29-year-old transwoman, has also been collecting money through UPI payment apps. It has also encouraged people to give her money even when they do not have small change.

Sharma, who has been begging in the streets since 2006 told Al Jazeera that about a quarter of her earnings are through the digital mode. “It is so much easier now. Even though people are not always carrying cash, they can still donate to us by just scanning this code,” she said. “We may be beggars, but we should still be treated with respect and decency,” she said and digital transactions have so far spared them from visiting banks where they frequently encounter prejudice and discrimination.