Delhi Launches 'Child Beggar-Free' Campaign

The Delhi government is set to launch a 'Child Beggar-Free Delhi' campaign to protect children found begging at public places and major road intersections across the capital.

According to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the campaign will cover all 13 districts of Delhi and aim to provide a secure future to children forced into beggary.

The government will work with the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to counsel the families of these children, address their difficulties, and provide better alternatives.

The campaign will also identify and expose organised gangs forcing children into begging. DCPCR Chairman OP Vyas said the campaign is expected to be launched around Independence Day after public feedback is considered.

Vyas noted that the problem of child begging has two aspects: parents who need counselling to wean their children away from begging, and organised gangs that force small, homeless, and poor children into begging, which will require strict legal action.

Under the campaign, child welfare committees will be actively involved, and children freed from beggary will be empowered through education and skill training.

The DCPCR will ensure that younger children receive formal education, while older children are provided skill training.

According to estimates by social organisations, Delhi has around 70,000 street children, with thousands engaged in begging at public places, including religious sites, bus and Metro stations, marketplaces, and major road intersections.

The 'Child Beggar-Free Delhi' campaign aims to address this issue and provide a better future for these children.

The campaign's success will depend on the collaboration between the government, NGOs, and the public.

With the launch of this campaign, Delhi is taking a step towards protecting its most vulnerable citizens and providing them with a chance at a better life.

This initiative is significant for Delhi, as it highlights the city's commitment to addressing social issues and ensuring the well-being of its residents, particularly children.