Many needy beggars suffer daily because of panhandlers who have transformed sympathy into a profession
KARACHI: I admit that there are many issues that Pakistan faces and many others that can be highlighted. However, the most persistent and most underrated problem is that of the panhandler mafia. Panhandling is defined as the act of approaching an individual and asking for food and money. It most likely originated from beggars. Laws addressing panhandling vary from place to place. Some locations distinguish between panhandling which is often considered freedom of speech and aggressive panhandling which includes harassing or intimidating those passing by. The most frequent complaints are that panhandlers pose a danger in that they may block traffic or harass drivers who are stopped at intersections. If the person refuses to give charity they start cursing.
It is a myth that all panhandlers are capable of work, even if there were jobs available for them, or that they all are addicted to alcohol or drugs. Majority of homeless people choose to live on the streets. And because of this many needy beggars would suffer daily because of these panhandlers who have transformed sympathy and need into a profession and an art. However, this is the exception and not the rule.
Misbah Javed
