Wed Feb 04 15:49:12 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Cyberabad Police Crack Down on Child Begging, Arrest Parents
The Story:
Cyberabad police have initiated a stringent crackdown on child begging, arresting parents accused of forcing their children to beg at busy intersections and public areas. The Cyberabad Women and Child Safety Wing, led by DCP Srujana Karnam, highlighted instances where children were even dressed as Mahatma Gandhi to solicit money. The crackdown follows the rescue of five minor boys found begging at the Cyber Towers junction, leading to the registration of a case against their parents at the Madhapur police station. The parents have been remanded to judicial custody.
Police officials are characterizing the act of forcing children to beg as a form of cruelty, exploitation, and a violation of the children’s rights, dignity, and well-being. They have cautioned that stringent legal action will be taken against parents or guardians found compelling or encouraging children to beg. Rescued children will be provided with protection, counselling, and rehabilitation support. The public is urged to report such incidents to the police or Child Helpline at 1098.
Key Points:
- Cyberabad police arrested and remanded parents for forcing children to beg.
- Five minor boys were rescued from begging at the Cyber Towers junction.
- A case was registered against the parents at the Madhapur police station.
- Police describe forcing children to beg as cruelty and exploitation.
- Rescued children will receive protection, counselling, and rehabilitation.
- The public is encouraged to report child begging to the police or Child Helpline at 1098.
Critical Analysis:
The crackdown on child begging in Cyberabad reflects an ongoing effort by Indian authorities to address socio-economic issues that contribute to child exploitation. The fact that police are specifically noting the practice of dressing children as Mahatma Gandhi points to a deliberate tactic used by those exploiting children to elicit greater sympathy and donations from the public.
Key Takeaways:
- Child begging is being treated as a serious crime, with parents facing arrest and judicial custody.
- The Cyberabad police are actively working to protect children from exploitation.
- Community involvement is crucial in reporting instances of child begging.
- The authorities recognize the need for comprehensive rehabilitation programs for rescued children.
Impact Analysis:
This crackdown may lead to a decrease in visible child begging in Cyberabad, though sustained efforts are needed to address the root causes of poverty and lack of opportunity that contribute to this issue. The public awareness campaign accompanying the police action has the potential to reduce public support for child begging, diminishing the incentive for exploiters. The success of this initiative will likely be judged by the long-term reintegration of rescued children into education and safe living environments.
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