BEGGARS have become a big source of distraction for the public. Though there is no doubt that many people resort to begging due to abject poverty, they also seem to exploit their economic conditions to earn a certain level of subsistence.

Beggary has become a profession for most of those who are part of a much larger industry that recruits, trains and relocates men, women and children.

Two things that drive this industry are ‘shock value’ and religious connotations of charity.

To fight the menace of beggary, the government and civil society shall have to play greater roles. Creating mass awareness shall drastically reduce the growing trend of professional beggary.

The government must mobilise a trained force to prevent beggary. Besides, it should also establish rehabilitation and charity centers, especially in big cities and towns.

Beggars must be rehabilitated and trained to eke out a living. The government and reputable NGOs must come forward and take measures towards setting up rehabilitation centres for beggars and displaced elders and children, provide them shelter and meals, train them to become self-employed, and provide them loans so that they could create a source of livelihood for their families.

By providing such services, the government must put a complete ban on beggary which will improve our standing in the eyes of the outside world.

ABDUL SAMAD CHANNA Karachi