OSCPCR Orders Strict Action Against Child Begging in Odisha
The Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) has directed district administrations to take stringent measures against child begging across the state.
Chairperson Babita Patra announced that district task forces will be formed under the leadership of collectors, with members including police superintendents, municipal commissioners, child protection officers, and labour officers.
These task forces will conduct rescue operations at traffic junctions, bus stands, and other public places.
Rescued children will be produced before the Child Welfare Committee and rehabilitated in care centres, where they will receive free education, healthcare, and counselling.
Strict legal action will be taken against individuals or groups forcing children into begging.
Specialised police units such as the Integrated Anti‑Human Trafficking Units (AHTU) and Investigative Units on Crimes Against Women (IUCAW) have been tasked with monitoring child trafficking and exploitation.
OSCPCR has appealed to the public not to encourage child begging and to report such cases to the child helpline.
District authorities must submit monthly compliance reports to the commission to ensure accountability and sustained action.
