Punjab moving toward a child beggary-free state; Mann government intensifies efforts

Chandigarh(The Uttam Hindu): Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has increased efforts to make the state free from child begging. Two children were recently rescued from begging in Faridkot.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said she noticed the children near the Faridkot Gate and immediately informed the District Child Protection Team. The team acted quickly, rescued the children, and produced them before the District Child Welfare Committee. After an inquiry, the children were shifted to a temporary shelter home.

She appreciated all district child protection teams whose prompt work under the Child Protection and Jeevanjyot Project is showing positive results across the state. She added that these teams are playing an important role in implementing government policies at the grassroots level.

Dr. Kaur said that the Chief Minister aims to ensure that no child in Punjab is seen begging on the streets. She stated that the government is committed to linking such children with education through the Jeevanjyot Project, and the campaign is showing encouraging results. Calling child begging a social evil and a violation of children’s rights, she warned parents, guardians, and gangs who force children to beg that strict legal action will be taken.

She also appealed to the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting any child found begging to the Child Helpline 1098 instead of giving money.

What is the Jeevanjyot Abhiyan?

Rescue operations: Children found begging in different districts are being identified and rescued.

DNA testing: DNA tests are being done to verify the relationship between rescued children and accompanying adults. If the DNA report does not match, strict action is taken to curb organized begging gangs.

Legal reforms: The Prevention of Begging Act, 1971, will be amended to include harsher punishments and heavy fines for parents, guardians, or racketeers who force children to beg.

Rehabilitation: Rescued children are being rehabilitated under various welfare schemes based on their eligibility and documents. Many have been re-enrolled in schools and Anganwadi centres.

Appeal to citizens: The government has urged people not to encourage child begging and to immediately report any such case to Child Helpline 1098.    (Advertorial)