Islamabad (Big Digit) Crackdown Needed Against Begging Mafia in Federal Capital – RANA IMRAN LATIF

Islamabad (Big Digit):Chairman of PIYYAS International Human Rights, Rana Imran Latif, has called upon the federal government, district administration, and police to launch an immediate and effective crackdown against the organized begging mafia operating in Islamabad’s major intersections, marketplaces, parking areas, and public spaces.

He expressed grave concern over how these professional begging networks have made life miserable for citizens across the country, especially in the federal capital. He revealed that behind these street beggars are mafia leaders who abduct children, cripple them by damaging their organs, and force them to beg in a state of permanent disability.

Citing the recently proposed Anti-Begging Amendment Bill by the Punjab government, Rana Imran Latif stated:
“We welcome the proposed law which suggests a 10-year imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 2 million for mafia leaders. Moreover, if the fine is not paid, an additional 3-year jail term will be imposed.”

He further praised the provision that classifies forced begging as a non-bailable offense, but demanded that similar legislation must be immediately introduced in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) as well.

Referring to a recent order by the Lahore High Court, Rana Imran Latif said the court has directed full implementation of the Anti-Begging Act within three months, and demanded a compliance report. The court also ordered the creation of a mobile application, registration of criminal cases against those forcing children into begging, and activation of rehabilitation centers for beggars.
“Unfortunately,” said Rana Imran, “Islamabad has yet to witness any visible or sustained crackdown against this mafia. Every day, we see child beggars at D-Chowk, Aabpara, Jinnah Super, and G-11 traffic signals — many of them disabled and being systematically exploited under the guise of humanitarian sympathy.”

According to PIYYAS International, institutions such as Roshni Helpline and ZARRA must be made more active in Islamabad to help recover missing children and bring the mafias to justice.
Key Demands by Rana Imran Latif:

Immediate launch of an anti-begging campaign in Islamabad.
Activation of a special task force comprising district administration and police officers.

Introduction of legislation in line with Punjab’s new anti-begging law.

Public shaming and legal prosecution of individuals involved in exploiting children, women, and the elderly.

Compilation of a centralized database including DNA, medical records, and rehabilitation center allocations for children found on the streets.