The Gujarat Police has suggested a new proposal to make street begging a punishable offence. This move aims to improve traffic flow and enhance public safety. The proposal comes after an increase in complaints about beggars at busy junctions, which can lead to harassment of drivers and obstruct traffic.
Inspired by successful programs in Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka, the plan will start in major cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot. It involves multiple government departments working together for a state-wide implementation.
Additional DGP Ajay Choudhary explained the need for this policy. He said, “Begging at traffic signals not only blocks the roads but also creates serious safety risks. We want to ensure public safety while maintaining a compassionate approach.”
While the proposal seeks to control begging, it also focuses on rehabilitation. The aim is not to punish those in need but to offer support to people forced into begging. The state is collaborating with the Social Justice Department and various NGOs to provide shelter, education, and job opportunities for those affected by begging networks.
Plans include expanding shelter home facilities, addressing begging mafias, and providing educational resources. The police are already conducting rescue operations. They have rescued several children involved in begging in Ahmedabad and are helping them enroll in schools.
The Anti-Human Trafficking Wing and traffic police will oversee the implementation, ensuring that actions are both effective and humane. Recently, officials met with UNESCO representatives to discuss child protection strategies in this context.
Gujarat authorities are learning from the experiences of other states. Reports indicate that similar laws in Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka have improved traffic conditions while assisting vulnerable populations. The focus will be on compassionate enforcement, aiming to help genuine cases rather than solely relying on legal action against repeat offenders.
The proposed law aims to strike a balance between public order, traffic safety, and social justice. This approach marks a change towards long-term solutions instead of quick fixes.
Overall, the initiative has sparked discussions about how to address begging while ensuring the safety and comfort of all citizens. With this proposal, Gujarat aims to create safer roads and a more supportive environment for vulnerable individuals.
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