Chandigarh
In a strong move to prevent child trafficking and exploitation through begging, the Punjab government has ordered DNA tests for children found begging with adults on the streets. The aim is to confirm whether the adults accompanying them are genuine family members, officials said on Thursday.
The directive, issued by the Directorate of Social Security (Women and Child Development) under the Jeewanjyot-2 project, instructs all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to implement the order. If a child is found with an adult and their relationship appears doubtful, child welfare committees will intervene. The child will be placed in a care home until DNA results confirm the relationship.
Strict legal action will be taken if the adult is found unrelated to the child. An official explained that child welfare committees will identify suspicious cases and refer them to DCs, who will recommend DNA testing.
Last month, Minister Baljit Kaur had also directed all DCs to declare their districts ‘beggar-free’ and ensure consistent monitoring. She stressed that the government is committed to protecting children and is using a firm yet compassionate strategy to end child begging.
Kaur also announced plans to amend the Punjab Prevention of Beggary Act (1971) to introduce tougher penalties. These will target parents, guardians, or criminal networks forcing children to beg, particularly at traffic signals and public places.
The government’s new steps mark a significant push toward protecting vulnerable children and breaking the cycle of forced begging in the state.
