BEGGING in Pakistan has moved far beyond an individual’s plea for survival. It has evolved into a calculated, exploitative business, controlled by powerful mafias that operate with strategic precision. These organized begging syndicates target and exploit society’s most vulnerable—often children—turning human misery into profit. Children are frequently abducted and forced into a life of begging. These young victims are subjected to physical abuse, psychological trauma, and often life-altering injuries designed to elicit public sympathy. Adults and minors alike are coerced into this trade, with mafias seizing their earnings and controlling every aspect of their movements. These criminal networks have become adept at using intimidation and violence to maintain dominance. Begging mafias operate openly, employing thugs and handlers to keep victims in check and eliminate any resistance. The success of these syndicates is often linked to the corruption that permeates the system. Law enforcement officials and local authorities sometimes turn a blind eye, influenced by bribes or sheer indifference.
Begging fuels a cycle of negative perceptions about poverty and reinforces prejudices against marginalized communities. The billions generated through begging not only evade legitimate economic channels but also place an added strain on social welfare systems, diverting attention from those truly in need. The forced nature of begging robs individuals of their dignity and basic human rights. Victims are denied freedom, safety, and the opportunity to live a life without exploitation. A direct result of this business is the trafficking of children and adults. Many are transported across provincial and national boundaries, subjecting them to years of exploitation and enslavement. The conditioning of victims is brutal, involving beatings and other forms of violence. This leads to long-term psychological damage and emotional scars that rarely heal. Those trapped in the begging trade often face alienation and are stigmatized, which prevents them from accessing education, employment, and meaningful social inclusion. Begging creates a cycle of dependency, where the victims cannot break free and become financially independent, further perpetuating poverty.
For real change, the government must invest in targeted measures to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals involved in organized begging. Special task forces need to be equipped with resources and legal backing to dismantle these syndicates. The state and NGOs should work collaboratively to establish safe havens where victims can receive not only physical protection but also psychological counseling and support for reintegration. Raising public awareness is essential to curtail the public’s support for the begging industry. Campaigns that inform people about the manipulation behind beggars’ appearances can help cut the flow of money to these mafias. Long-term rehabilitation for victims should include vocational training programs and economic support to help them become self-reliant and integrate into society. Existing laws need reinforcement. Legislation should clearly define and criminalize organized begging while protecting victims from further exploitation.
The pervasive nature of begging in Pakistan also calls for an introspective look at societal behavior. Acts of charity, though well-intentioned, often perpetuate the cycle by providing a steady flow of money into the hands of these organized groups. Redirecting charity towards verified institutions and supporting programs aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities could be more impactful. Community vigilance is crucial. Reporting suspicious activities related to begging and encouraging local leaders to address the issue can create a culture of accountability and empathy. This is not just a battle for law enforcement or policymakers—it’s a fight that requires the collective effort of society to champion the rights of the voiceless. An estimated 100,000 children are kidnapped annually for the purpose of begging, according to the Pakistan Child Rights Movement. Reports from the National Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force indicate that around 70% of individuals involved in begging are under the control of organized crime syndicates. The Federal Investigation Agency estimates that these mafias generate approximately PKR 10 billion (USD 67 million) each year, underscoring the lucrative nature of this hidden economy. While the numbers are grim, they present a call to action. Addressing the begging mafia in Pakistan requires a multi-faceted approach that incorporates stronger law enforcement, public awareness, and sustainable rehabilitation programs. With focused efforts, the cycle of exploitation can be broken, paving the way for a society where the vulnerable are protected and not preyed upon. The dark reality of begging in Pakistan isn’t just a story of organized crime; it’s a story of lost potential and forgotten humanity. Change can begin when we decide to look beyond the surface and confront the forces that profit from this inhumane industry.
—The writer is former Regional Executive Inclusive Development at NBP, Mirpur AK.
