CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -The begging is not penalized under central law in India. The anti-begging laws exist in 22 states including union territories in India. The act that being as a derivative figure for all states is Bombay’s Prevention of Begging Act, 1959. Punishment can be anywhere between 1 to 3 years.

Detailed explanation-2: -The states which have anti-beggary laws include Bihar, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab. Further, two Union Territories, Delhi and Daman & Diu, also have anti-beggary laws.

Detailed explanation-3: -The Indian Penal Code, 1860 was amended in 1959 to criminalize the exploitation of children for begging. Section 363A of the Code makes it illegal to kidnap or maim a minor for the purpose of begging.

Detailed explanation-4: -Picture for representational purpose only. The Delhi High Court on Wednesday decriminalised begging in the national capital. During the hearings earlier, the court had asked how begging could be an offence in a country where the govt is unable to provide food or jobs.