Pkl launches drive to eliminate begging, focuses on rehabilitation

Times News NetworkPanchkula: Police Commissioner Pankaj Nain on Monday launched a special campaign to end the begging menace in the city. A six‑member police team constituted to identify and rehabilitate people engaged in begging at traffic signals, markets, hospitals, religious places and other public areas became operational on Monday.The team, headed by Women Police Station SHO, inspector Rajesh Kumari, will conduct regular patrols and inspections across the city. The campaign focuses not only on removing beggars from public spaces but also on ensuring their rehabilitation through coordination with government departments, NGOs and rehabilitation centres.Officials said the drive aims to rescue vulnerable individuals, especially children, from being pushed into begging and to integrate them into mainstream society.Police commissioner Nain stressed that forcing children to beg is a serious offence under Section 76 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. Individuals using children for begging can face up to five years’ imprisonment and heavy fines. Cases involving physical harm or mutilation of children for begging purposes attract stricter punishment, including imprisonment of up to ten years.

He warned that even parents or guardians found compelling children to beg would face legal action. The Commissioner also highlighted road safety concerns, noting that beggars approaching vehicles at traffic signals often increase the risk of accidents.To encourage public participation, Panchkula Police has launched a dedicated helpline 8146630022, where citizens can report incidents of begging or child exploitation. Police assured that every complaint will be acted upon promptly.