19 child beggars rescued in Patiala

In a major crackdown on child begging, the Patiala District Administration rescued 19 children begging at various locations across the district. Deputy Commissioner Preeti Yadav said the campaign was part of Punjab Government’s “Project Jeevanjyot 2.0”, aimed at making the state beggar-free.

Preeti emphasised that strict action would be taken against those forcing children into begging. If needed, DNA tests will be conducted to determine the identity of adults accompanying the children and to curb possible child trafficking. “No one who exploits children for begging will be spared,” she warned. She appealed to the public not to give alms to children and instead report such cases to Child Helpline 1098.

Nodal officers have been appointed across the district and raids will continue under their supervision.

Children will be kept at children’s homes and further steps will be taken for their rehabilitation.