Balochistan Assembly Reviews Anti-Beggary Bill 2025; Proposes Strict Penalties for Professional Beggars and Rehabilitation Through Welfare Institutions

Quetta: A detailed review of the Balochistan Anti-Beggary Bill 2025 was conducted under the chairmanship of Chairman Fazal Qadir Mandokhail, with participation from committee members Asadullah Baloch, Farah Azim Shah, and Safia Fazal, along with secretaries from the assembly and social welfare department.

The committee expressed concern over the rising number of beggars in Quetta, particularly professional beggars operating in streets, intersections, highways, and commercial centers. Reports indicated that many beggars are exploited by organized groups through coercion, smuggling, or other means.

The proposed bill recommends strict penalties for those who exploit beggars, aiming to deliver justice to victims. In addition to punitive measures, the bill emphasizes rehabilitation, providing shelter, care, and support for beggars and their dependents in government-approved welfare institutions to facilitate their dignified reintegration into society.

Special provisions for the protection of children and dependents have also been included to prevent further exploitation and ensure access to education, care, and development opportunities. The committee highlighted that the bill addresses begging as both a social issue and a public nuisance, stressing the need for effective strategies to tackle root causes such as poverty and lack of education. Strengthening the social welfare department was also emphasized to enhance the effectiveness of these initiatives.