Chandigarh, July 5:
In a significant move directed by Punjab Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur, swift action against child begging in Patiala has resulted in the rescue of four children.
Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur promptly responded to information provided by a citizen regarding children begging near the old bus stand in Patiala and some children sleeping on the roadside. She instructed the Patiala district officials to take immediate action, leading to the formation of a team that conducted a raid under the supervision of the District Child Protection Officer.
Dr. Kaur revealed that the authorities acted without delay, conducting a successful raid in the city. As a result, four children were rescued—three were found begging, and one was found sleeping on the street. These children have been taken under the care of the security team.
The Cabinet Minister also informed that the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) has been alerted, and legal measures are being pursued against individuals exploiting children for begging. The rescued children who were sleeping on the street have been reunited with their parents, while the DCPO office has initiated efforts to provide educational sponsorship for the children.
Dr. Baljit Kaur underscored the Punjab government’s commitment, under the leadership of Bhagwant Singh Mann, to safeguarding the rights and well-being of children. She also highlighted the crucial role of community vigilance and urged citizens to report any incidents of child begging or homelessness to district authorities immediately.
Dr. Kaur announced that a statewide campaign against child begging will be launched in all districts to rescue and rehabilitate such children.
