Child begging poses a challenge in Kalyana Karnataka
Official data from the State Directorate of Child Rights indicates that 340 children were found begging over past four years.
Kalaburagi recorded 123 cases, while Ballari had 77, Koppal 48, Bidar 47, Raichur 39, Yadgir 5, and Vijayanagar 1.
The problem encompasses toddlers, minors, and children with disabilities who solicit alms in public spaces, often under the control of organised criminal networks. Shashidhar Kosambe of the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights attributes the situation to administrative shortcomings in law enforcement.
Commission member Shekargouda G Ramatnal acknowledged the efforts of the District Child Protection Units (DCPU) in child rescue operations. "However, some factions view begging as a business, complicating efforts to eliminate it," he remarked.
Records show a notable rise in child begging incidents from 2021-22 to 2024-25 in the region. Despite existing protective legislation, inadequate implementation and rehabilitation schemes impede sustainable solutions.
Koppal district child rights protection officer Mahantaswamy Pujar highlights the issue of begging activities at religious sites, such as Hulagi, and suggests that local authorities conduct surveillance to facilitate departmental intervention. He notes the absence of a rehabilitation centre in Koppal, requiring transportation to Ballari.
The 'Karnataka Prohibition of Begging Act-1975' constitutes the primary legislative tool for addressing begging and rehabilitation.
Departmental officials indicate that while the social welfare department holds direct responsibility for implementing the act, it seems to focus more on hostels than on taking action regarding this issue.
Section 12 of the act prohibits begging, carrying a maximum of three years' imprisonment. Authorities discourage giving alms to beggars accompanied by children and encourage reporting such instances to child welfare hotlines.
The public can also report incidents via the social welfare department's helpline (94823 00400).
The govt has also allocated Rs 306.2 crore from 2021-22 to 2023-24 for relief centres and committees, plus approximately Rs 10-15 crore for awareness campaigns. However, the official recognition of 340 children begging suggests that the effect of these measures was limited.
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