'No food needed, just money'; Nomadic tribes, child begging on the rise in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Migrant beggars with children have turned into a normal sight in Thiruvananthapuram. In major junctions at busy hours, one would, in all probability, chance upon a few of their tribes begging alms. Nomadic families from North India form the majority in the group. In some roads, even girls aged between 6 and 10 are seen roaming alone begging for alms.

They will prevail upon people to give them money. If ignored, they will pester until the traffic signal turns green. Curiously, they often neglect help in the form of food but prefer just money. The vagrants have made their camps in places such as East Fort, Palayam, Kumarapuram, Pallimukku, Pettah, Chackai, and Medical College.

There are also reports that the adults in their group deliberately injure children and leave a mark on their bodies to evoke sympathy from commoners. A large number of these groups arrived in Kerala during the Onam season. They have not yet returned to their homes. As of now, many are camping in major temples in the city.

👉Although child begging is a crime punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to one lakh rupees under the Juvenile Justice Act 2015, the law is not followed dutifully.

👉The group first came to the capital with various products like keychains, earrings, and dolls. Later, they turned to begging. Adults often engage in wiping the glass of cars while at a signal without the owners asking for it. They later demand money for their work.

Child Welfare Committee Chairperson Shaniba Begum told Kerala Kaumudi about receiving tons of complaints recently. A migrant woman and her child were recently rescued. The woman howled while in the shelter house and showed signs of mental imbalance. She was shifted to a mental health centre, and the children to a shelter home.

If you spot a child begging, call the Child Helpline number 1098 or the Police Emergency Helpline number 112.