Punjab Child Begging Law: Parents Face Up to 3 Years in Jail
Under the new Punjab child begging law, parents and guardians who force children to beg can face up to three years in prison and a Rs300,000 fine, effective immediately.
The Punjab Vagrancy (Amendment) Ordinance 2026 allows up to three years in prison and a fine of up to Rs300,000 for parents or guardians who force children to beg.
The ordinance took effect immediately after the provincial governor approved it, and reports say a gazette notification has been issued.
The legal definition of a child now includes 16-year-olds.
The Director General of Social Welfare and Baitul Maal has been appointed Controller of Vagrancy.
Police officials said the law aims to curb the exploitation of children for begging.