Govt plans to strengthen laws to prevent Pakistani beggars from going abroad

The government has initiated plans to enhance legislation aimed at preventing Pakistani beggars from traveling abroad and to enforce strict measures against migrant smuggling.

The proposed bill seeks to amend the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2018. It was introduced by Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri in the Senate on June 10, 2024, with the objective of increasing penalties for human trafficking offenses.

On January 28, the Ministry of Interior presented the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Senate to tackle the issue of migrant smuggling.

According to the proposed legislation, individuals found guilty of smuggling refugees could face a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of Rs10 million. Additionally, those involved in the preparation of fraudulent documents may also receive a 10-year prison sentence and a fine of Rs5 million.

The bill stipulates that anyone providing accommodation to an illegal resident would be subject to five years in prison and a fine of Rs2 million. In cases involving inhumane treatment, injury, or death, offenders could face penalties of up to 14 years in prison and a fine of Rs10 million.

Read more: Woman arrested for begging in Saudi Arabia upon return to Karachi

The legislation also proposes the establishment of special courts to expedite the trial process for offenders.

Organized begging is defined within the bill as “soliciting financial assistance through fraud, coercion, or manipulation, including knocking on vehicle windows or forcibly cleaning car windows.”

Furthermore, the bill asserts that soliciting charity by showcasing injuries, illnesses, or disabilities is considered organized begging. It raises concerns regarding certain Pakistani individuals who engage in begging during pilgrimage trips for Hajj, Umrah, or Ziyarat, and promises stringent action against these groups.