This
research paper investigates the phenomenon of organized begging in India’s Punjab,
focusing on its intricate connections to commerce, governance, and social
impact. While traditionally perceived as a symptom of poverty, begging in
contemporary urban Punjab has transformed into a structured and exploitative
system, orchestrated by "begging mafias" that manipulate vulnerable
populations, including children and marginalized groups. The study emphasizes
the significant rise of organized begging in urban centers, particularly near
religious and tourist destinations, where cultural practices of almsgiving
unintentionally perpetuate these exploitative networks. The inadequate legal
frameworks and governance mechanisms in Punjab further exacerbate the issue, as
existing laws fail to address the complex distinction between coerced and
voluntary begging. This paper synthesizes interdisciplinary literature to
conceptualize organized begging as a systemic issue rooted in socio economic
vulnerabilities, deficient legal protections, and cultural norms that valorize
charity. It advocates for interdisciplinary approaches that integrate law
enforcement, social welfare, and civil society efforts to dismantle these
organized begging networks while providing rehabilitation and reintegration
support for affected individuals. The findings highlight the urgent need for policy
reforms and public awareness initiatives to address the ethical and
humanitarian implications of organized begging in Punjab.
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