Cyberabad Police get tough against child exploitation, book parents

Cyberabad Police have arrested parents who forced their children to beg at traffic junctions, some dressed as Mahatma Gandhi. Five minors were rescued and placed under child welfare authorities, while parents face judicial custody in a landmark enforcement action

Hyderabad: Cautioning that anyone exploiting minors will face strict action, the Cyberabad Police have arrested and sent to jail parents who were allegedly forcing their own children to beg at busy traffic junctions and public places.

Police officials said during a recent special drive against child labour, it was found that several parents were repeatedly sending their children onto the streets to beg, even after being counselled earlier.

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In some cases, children were painted and dressed in the attire of Mahatma Gandhi to evoke sympathy from commuters at traffic signals, road junctions, and commercial areas.

As part of the recent enforcement drive, five minor boys were rescued while begging at the Cyber Towers junction. A case was registered at the Madhapur police station against their parents for subjecting the children to exploitation. The parents were arrested and later remanded in judicial custody, a first-of-its-kind action by the Cyberabad Police against families involved in child begging.

Senior officers said forcing children to beg not only violates their fundamental rights but also exposes them to grave risks, including road accidents, physical harm and long-term emotional and psychological trauma.

“Such acts are a serious offence and repeated violations will attract stringent punishment under relevant child laws. The rescued children have been placed under the care of child welfare authorities and will be provided protection, counselling, and rehabilitation support,” said K Srujana, DCP, Women and Child Safety Wing, Cyberabad.

Police officials said efforts continue to ensure the children are enrolled in educational and welfare initiatives to prevent them from returning to the streets.

Cyberabad Police requested citizens not to encourage child begging, but report incidents to the police or child helpline -1098.