Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Bombay High Court has directed the Goa government to submit a comprehensive action plan to address the rising concern of children being forced to beg at traffic signals across the state.
The directive came during the hearing of a public interest litigation highlighting increasing instances of child begging and the likelihood of organised exploitation. Taking serious note, the court stressed the need for a structured and coordinated response from authorities.
The High Court observed that merely removing children from traffic signals would not be sufficient, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach that includes rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.
It also emphasised the need for proper monitoring and regulation to prevent children from being pushed back into begging networks. The court asked the state to examine suggestions put forward by the petitioner aimed at safeguarding children’s welfare and rights.
The directive brings attention to concerns over possible organised rackets exploiting children, raising issues related to their safety, education, and basic rights.
The state government is expected to outline specific measures involving coordination between law enforcement agencies, child welfare committees, and social welfare departments.
Further hearings are likely after the submission of the action plan, as the court continues to closely monitor the matter.
