Islamabad, May 20, 2025: Every day, thousands witness the same scene—Pakistan beggars lining up at traffic signals, markets, mosques, and bus stops.
While many believe these individuals are simply poor and helpless, the harsh truth is more disturbing. Behind their outstretched hands lies a well-organized network, turning misery into money.
Who Are Pakistan Beggars?
They come in many forms. Not all are what they seem:
- Child beggars: Many are kidnapped or sold into begging mafias.
- Women with babies: Often use borrowed or drugged infants to gain sympathy.
- Fake disabilities: Some pretend to be blind or injured to draw pity.
- Elderly or sick: Left on the streets by families or handlers.
- Drug-dependent beggars: Use money to feed their addiction.
Shocking Numbers
- Over 25 million live below the poverty line in Pakistan.
- 70% of Pakistan beggars in cities are connected to criminal groups.
- Some beggars earn more than Rs. 3,000 per day, most of which goes to gang leaders.
Inside the Begging Mafia
Begging is no longer just about poverty. It’s a business.
- Beggars are assigned “spots” like shops and traffic signals.
- Daily quotas must be met; failure leads to punishment.
- Infants are rented out to women to attract donations.
- Children are sometimes injured to increase sympathy.
Mafias behind these operations make millions of rupees monthly.
Why the System Grows
Despite public complaints, the number of Pakistan beggars keeps rising. Why?
- Lack of law enforcement: Most operations end in short-term arrests.
- Public kindness: People give money without asking questions.
- No rehabilitation: Few centers exist for real victims.
- Inflation and joblessness: Families are forced to send children to beg.
Read More: Over 5,400 Pakistani Beggars Deported From Foreign Countries
Failed Government Efforts
Governments have launched drives, but few succeed.
- Punjab police arrested hundreds in raids, but most were released quickly.
- Sindh laws exist but are rarely enforced on the ground.
- Rehab centers remain underfunded and understaffed.
There’s no long-term plan to remove Pakistan beggars from the streets.
Read More: Thousands of Pakistani Beggars Deported from Gulf, Says Asif
Social Impact
The rise in organized begging damages society in many ways:
Spreads crime and drug activity.
Encourages child labor and abuse.
Reduces trust in real charity work.
Creates traffic and safety issues in cities.
What Can Be Done?
Solving the beggar issue in Pakistan requires serious commitment:
- Crack down on mafias, not just street beggars.
- Build well-managed shelters for genuine cases.
- Launch national awareness campaigns about the mafia’s tricks.
- Encourage donations to trusted NGOs, not individuals.
- Empower local communities to report illegal activity.
The next time you hand out money, ask yourself: Is this helping someone in need, or is it fueling a dangerous system? The problem of Pakistan beggars is not just about poverty anymore—it’s about crime, exploitation, and neglect. As citizens, we must act wisely and demand real solutions from those in power.
