Crackdown launched against ‘professional beggars’ in Rawalpindi, Islamabad

RAWALPINDI: In an attempt to address the increasing prevalence of professional begging in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, authorities have implemented stringent measures that have resulted in legal actions against 67 ’professional beggars’.

Throughout December 2023, 42 cases were registered, indicating a determined push to tackle this issue head-on.

The initiative not only seeks to reduce the occurrence of begging but also aims to promote alternative avenues for earning a livelihood.

The Islamabad Deputy Commissioner’s office disclosed that, following a thorough investigation, legal proceedings were initiated against 67 individuals engaged in professional begging.

These cases, now under the purview of competent jurisdiction, mark a significant stride in addressing the persistent problem, according to an official in the Ministry of Interior who spoke to APP.

The measures taken have led to a noticeable decrease in begging activities across the twin cities.

Officials are optimistic that these actions will steer beggars towards more sustainable sources of income, underscoring the importance of hard work and labor.

Additionally, ongoing efforts to address inflation and poverty are underway, with the government diligently working to provide equal employment opportunities for all segments of society.

The ultimate goal is to foster an environment where citizens can earn a living through legitimate means, reducing their reliance on begging as a source of income.

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Noteworthy locations identified for professional begging include Saddar, Committee, Mureed and Chadni Chowks, Sixth Road, Pindora Chongi, Faizabad, Dhoak Kala Khan in Rawalpindi, and Aabpara, Melody Market, G-7, G-8, F-8, H-9, and G-9 in Islamabad.

The deceptive tactics employed by beggars, such as feigning tears and fabricating disabilities, highlight the extent to which begging has become a pervasive business.

This phenomenon is not confined to a specific age or gender, as women carrying infants and young men turn to begging to elicit sympathy from the public.

These findings underscore the need for comprehensive measures to address the root causes of professional begging.

Furthermore, the Islamabad district administration authorities assert that concrete steps are being taken to discourage professional behavior.

The focus is on making the federal capital a more livable place for residents by eliminating the prevalence of begging and fostering an environment where citizens can thrive independently.

As authorities intensify their efforts to combat professional begging, the legal actions against 67 individuals send a clear message.

The decline in begging activities reflects the success of these measures in redirecting individuals towards more sustainable livelihoods.

The ongoing commitment to addressing poverty and inflation and providing equal employment opportunities demonstrates a holistic approach to creating a society where begging is not a necessity.

While the journey to eradicate professional begging is undoubtedly challenging, the twin cities aim to pave the way for a more self-sufficient and thriving community, concluded the official.

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