Lokesh, deeply moved by the video, quickly took to social media platform X to express his concern. He wrote that the sight of the child begging was heartbreaking, stressing that every child has the right to safety and a carefree childhood. He assured the public that the government would take immediate action to locate the child, provide the necessary protection, and ensure his well-being. The minister also vowed to hold those responsible for the child’s suffering accountable, emphasizing that such exploitation would not be tolerated.

The video, which showed the child in a vulnerable state, sparked widespread outrage and sympathy. Lokesh’s response highlighted his commitment to child welfare, noting that childhood should be a time of joy, free from such hardships. He expressed his sorrow at the situation and assured that steps would be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.

The boy, who was seen begging near the Dress Circle shopping mall in Kurnool, was subjected to the cruel practice of forced begging, a troubling issue that has drawn attention in several parts of the country. Minister Lokesh’s swift action reflects the government’s determination to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.

The post Minister Nara Lokesh Responds to Heartbreaking Incident of Child Begging in Kurnool appeared first on Vizag One.

In addition to begging, older children are leased out for performances in circuses or street shows. According to activists, these children endure harsh training, abuse, and exploitation, with some earning around ₹15,000 annually for their families. Shockingly, upfront payments are often demanded by criminal gangs controlling these operations.

Gondu Sitaram, a member of the Child Rights Commission, described child begging as the “biggest mafia operation.” Speaking with Deccan Chronicle, Sitaram revealed that although some progress has been made in addressing this issue, the problem remains rampant and requires constant intervention from authorities. He cited cases where women, carrying infants, have resorted to violence when questioned about their activities.

Disturbingly, babies involved in begging are often sedated using cough syrup, benzodiazepines like Alprazolam, and injections such as Diazepam and Nitrazepam, leaving them unconscious while being exploited.

However, there is hope. Organizations like Generation YUVAA, led by B Naresh Kumar, have been working tirelessly to rescue children from these dire situations. Over the past 17 years, Generation YUVAA has provided shelter to 200 rescued children, including 75 girls, and is committed to transforming their lives through education and rehabilitation.

City Police Commissioner Sankabrata Bagchi has also pledged to take action against the perpetrators of child begging. He announced plans to activate his task force to identify and trace those involved in this exploitative practice and hold them accountable.

While organizations and law enforcement are making strides, more needs to be done to protect these vulnerable children and put an end to this heartbreaking cycle of abuse.

The post The Growing Crisis of Child Begging: A Call for Urgent Action appeared first on Vizag One.