Chandigarh, January 18:
The Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is fully committed to eradicating the social evil of child begging from the state. In line with this commitment, the government has intensified strict, result-oriented action against those forcing children into begging. This was stated by Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur.
Sharing further details, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said that during a special statewide drive conducted over the past two days, raids were carried out at identified hotspots across all districts. As a result, 31 children found begging were rescued. After verification of documents, four children were handed over to their parents on the spot by the Child Welfare Committee, while 27 children were temporarily shifted to child care homes, where further verification and appropriate action will be undertaken as per rules.
The Cabinet Minister informed that under Project JIWANJYOT 2.0, the Punjab Government has so far rescued a total of 1,023 children from child begging. Among them, 38 children have been provided benefits under the Sponsorship Scheme, 349 children have been enrolled in schools, nine children have been linked with Anganwadi centres, and 13 children have been provided healthcare facilities under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme. Children residing in child care homes are being provided education, nutrition, healthcare and other essential services to ensure a safe, dignified and secure future.
Dr Baljit Kaur said that due to these sustained efforts, a continuous decline in incidents of child begging has been observed across the state. She reiterated that the Punjab Government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against child begging and that enforcement drives will be further intensified in the coming days.
The Minister categorically warned that any individual found forcing children into begging will face strict legal action as per the law. She also appealed to the public not to encourage child begging by giving alms. If any child is seen begging on roads or public places, citizens are urged to immediately inform Child Helpline 1098, the district Child Welfare Committee, or the concerned authorities, so that timely intervention can ensure a safe and dignified future for every child.
