Battling the Menace of Begging

In the bustling streets of Karachi, an unfortunate predicament has woven itself into the fabric of our society, the persistent prevalence of begging. Begging, defined as the act of seeking without offering a valid service in return, has emerged as a scourge that not only dehumanizes individuals but has sadly become a common occupation in our daily lives.

From the parks to marketplaces, hospitals to mosques, and even the virtual realms of Facebook and Twitter, beggars are omnipresent, making demands for groceries, medication, and money by sharing the desperate state of their homes. This phenomenon reaches its peak during Ramadan, as individuals from various parts of Pakistan, grappling with poverty, inflation, illiteracy, and unemployment, flock to Karachi, with a significant number settling in slum regions.

As citizens of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, it is imperative to recognize that our religion forbids begging and encourages hard work. The Vagrancy Act of 1950 explicitly prohibits begging in Karachi, empowering the police to apprehend beggars and place them in designated camps, with healthy beggars potentially facing expulsion from the city.

To address this societal challenge, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, refraining from offering help to unworthy causes and discouraging the act of begging can play a pivotal role.

Advocacy through newspapers, radio, and television can be a powerful tool in shaping public opinion and fostering a culture of self-sufficiency. Moreover, the onus lies on the government and local communities to engage beggars in various crafts, businesses, and occupations. Redirecting donations from professional beggars to reputable non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can contribute to creating sustainable solutions for the underprivileged.

As we strive for the growth and prosperity of our nation, it is crucial to collectively condemn and combat the practice of begging. By fostering a society that values hard work, discourages begging, and actively supports initiatives for the underprivileged, we can pave the way for a more compassionate and self-reliant community.

By: Tooba Ahmed

The author is a Ph.D. Scholar in the Department of Social Work and Visiting faculty
member in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Karachi