In a major step towards protecting children’s rights and ensuring a safer future for vulnerable minors, the Punjab government has intensified its fight against child begging under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. As part of the ongoing efforts, a massive statewide campaign was executed by the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development. This special initiative, conducted under the banner of Project JEEVANJYOT 2.0, successfully led to the rescue of 47 children forced into begging across different districts of Punjab.
Sharing the details of this operation, Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that the campaign was not a symbolic gesture but a serious, coordinated, and result-oriented action at the grassroots level. District Child Protection Units were mobilized to carry out simultaneous raids, totalling 31 across the state, targeting hotspots known for child begging. These surprise raids helped identify and rescue children from harsh, exploitative conditions, ensuring immediate relief and protection.
Dr. Kaur elaborated that of the 47 rescued children, 30 were successfully reunited with their families following proper document verification and scrutiny. However, in 17 cases, where parents or guardians could not be traced or verified, the children were shifted to Child Care Institutions. These facilities are equipped to provide safe housing, emotional care, counseling, and rehabilitation services to the rescued children.
The Cabinet Minister made it clear that every child rescued is treated with dignity and compassion, and authorities are working relentlessly to ensure their long-term safety and welfare. She also underlined the critical role of District Child Welfare Committees in evaluating each individual case. In instances where children are suspected to be victims of more serious offenses such as trafficking, forced labor, or organized criminal exploitation, further legal and forensic actions—including DNA tests and FIR registration—may be initiated with the approval of the concerned Deputy Commissioner.
One of the more assertive elements of the campaign is its stance on parental accountability. Dr. Kaur issued a firm warning to guardians and caregivers who are found repeatedly exploiting their children by forcing them into begging. She explained that such individuals could be legally declared as ‘unfit guardians’ under the Juvenile Justice Act and face strict legal consequences. If a child is found to have been involved in begging as a part of organized crime or trafficking, then charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and child protection laws will be applied rigorously.
The Minister stressed that Project JEEVANJYOT 2.0 is more than just a rescue mission. It’s a holistic model designed to protect, rehabilitate, and reintegrate affected children into society. It offers not just physical rescue but also long-term developmental interventions including education, psychological support, vocational training, and reintegration with families or suitable guardians. By investing in this comprehensive model, the state government aims to create systemic change and provide a dignified life to the most vulnerable children of Punjab.
Dr. Kaur connected the campaign to the broader vision of creating a ‘Rangla Punjab’—a vibrant and inclusive Punjab where no child is forced to beg on the streets or denied the right to a safe and happy childhood. She said that every such child rescued is a step closer to this vision. This is a Punjab where children are not exploited for alms but empowered through education and opportunity.
In her public appeal, Dr. Baljit Kaur urged citizens not to give money or alms to child beggars. Instead, she encouraged the public to report any such instance immediately by calling the Child Helpline at 1098. The state, she affirmed, is prepared to intervene swiftly, but public cooperation is essential in identifying and addressing the problem at the community level.
The Minister also emphasized the need for sensitivity among citizens and authorities alike. Recognizing that child begging often stems from deeper social and economic issues, the campaign also aims to provide support to families through welfare schemes, counseling, and awareness drives. The goal is not just to rescue children once, but to ensure that they do not fall back into the cycle of exploitation due to poverty or neglect.
This large-scale intervention demonstrates the Punjab government’s unwavering commitment to child protection and welfare. Under the stewardship of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the active leadership of Dr. Baljit Kaur, Project JEEVANJYOT 2.0 stands as a model for proactive and people-centric governance. It sends a clear message that child begging will no longer be tolerated and that every child in Punjab has the right to a safe, healthy, and dignified life.
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