The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has taken a significant step towards tackling the issue of beggary in the province. A high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation was held in Peshawar to formulate a comprehensive strategy.
High-Level Meeting Chaired by Law Minister
The committee meeting was chaired by Law Minister Advocate Aftab Alam. It brought together key officials including Secretary Law Akhtar Saeed Turk and Deputy Secretary to the Chief Minister’s Secretariat Usman Jelani. Representatives from the Social Welfare Department, the Advocate General’s Office, and other concerned departments were also present.
Focus on the KP Vagrancy Act 2025
At the heart of the discussions was the proposed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Vagrancy (Control and Rehabilitation) Act 2025. Participants held detailed consultations on the draft law, emphasizing that the goal is not merely to control beggary but to ensure the dignified rehabilitation of those involved in it.
The committee reached a consensus that the legislation must include practical and implementable mechanisms. The focus will be on providing beggars with opportunities for skill development, social support, and comprehensive rehabilitation. The ultimate aim is to enable them to become productive and self-reliant members of society.
Addressing Social Impact and Government Commitment
Officials at the meeting noted that beggary disrupts social balance and tarnishes the province's reputation. They proposed sustainable measures to reduce its prevalence and mitigate its negative social impact.
Law Minister Aftab Alam emphasized the government's commitment to addressing such social issues through public-friendly and transparent legislation. He underlined the necessity for a comprehensive law that prioritizes humanitarian principles and is grounded in the realities on the ground during the legislative process.
