By: Tariq Hussain
Srinagar: The sinister workings of the begging mafia came to fore recently in Srinagar after a team of Child Protection Welfare conducted a raid in Parimpora and rescued several non-local and local children.
These children, according to the officials, were coerced into begging by the criminals involved in this racket.
“The raid exposed the distressing reality of children being coerced into begging on the streets. This criminal network, known for its exploitation of vulnerable individuals, has been operating for far too long,” said an observer.
He said, “The victims of this heinous crime are often innocent children, who are forced into begging as a means to generate profits for the organized begging syndicates. Their childhoods are snatched away as they are subjected to physical and psychological abuse, forced to roam the streets and beg for alms under the watchful eyes of their captors.”
According to the details available with Precious Kashmir the begging mafia follows a well-orchestrated modus operandi, relying on various tactics to manipulate and control their young victims. These criminal networks often target impoverished areas where families struggle to meet their basic needs. They prey on the desperation and vulnerability of families who are unable to provide for their children, promising them a better life and education.
Once a child is ensnared in their clutches, the mafia employs a range of coercive techniques, including threats, violence, and even abduction, to ensure compliance. Children are subjected to physical and emotional abuse, deprived of their rights and subjected to inhumane living conditions. In many cases, they are also exposed to drug addiction and forced into illegal activities to further benefit the criminal enterprises they serve.
The begging mafia operates as a highly organized network with intricate hierarchies. Kingpins and intermediaries oversee the recruitment and management of the child beggars, while handlers are responsible for controlling and monitoring their activities on the streets. These handlers often manipulate sympathetic individuals, claiming to collect funds for charitable causes or orphanages, when in reality, the money raised is funneled into the pockets of the criminal syndicate.
Pertinently, law enforcement agencies have intensified their efforts to dismantle these criminal networks. Raids on suspected hideouts have led to the rescue of numerous children and the arrest of key members involved in the begging mafia. Governments and NGOs are also working together to raise awareness, implement preventive measures, and provide support and rehabilitation to the victims.
An observer said, “It is imperative that society as a whole joins forces to combat this abhorrent crime. Parents and communities must be educated about the tactics used by the begging mafia, empowering them to protect their children and report any suspicious activities. Collaboration between law enforcement agencies, social services, and civil society organizations is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.”
Crackdown on begging mafia reveals ordeal of children
