Pervasive menace of beggary

Begging remains a glaring reminder of poverty in Pakistan. For many, offering a few rupees to beggars seems like an act of kindness, but this well-intentioned gesture fails to address the root causes of poverty. Instead of providing relief, it entrenches people in a dependency, stifling progress.

Alarmingly, a beggar's daily income can sometimes surpass that of a child labourer, raising serious questions about societal values and the worth assigned to honest work. With a population exceeding 240 million, Pakistan is home to an estimated 38 million beggars. Reports suggest that beggars in Pakistan collectively receive Rs32 billion in charity every day. If accurate, this translates to an astonishing Rs11.7 trillion annually, or $42 billion. This issue presents a troubling paradox: 38 million non-productive individuals are consuming $42 billion annually, while the rest of the population struggles with soaring inflation. Such figures indicate the massive economic drain caused by the culture of begging.

The begging problem has also attracted international attention, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where authorities have expressed concern over the rising number of Pakistani beggars. In a recent Senate committee session, it was revealed that 90% of beggars arrested abroad - particularly in Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq - are Pakistani. This not only raises serious concerns about human trafficking but also tarnishes Pakistan's international image. Many of these individuals misuse Umrah visas, hoping for better opportunities, only to find themselves trapped in poverty in foreign lands. In July, the Pakistani government decided to block the passports of over 2,000 beggars, aiming to curb this damaging trend.

Within Pakistan, the way charity is dispensed often exacerbates the problem. People frequently give money to beggars without considering the long-term consequences, making begging appear more lucrative than honest work. This practice discourages people from seeking employment and reinforces dependency. To address poverty effectively, we need to rethink how we give. Random handouts do not tackle poverty. Instead of fueling the begging economy, donations should be directed towards individuals striving to make an honest living, such as waiters, small business owners or day labourers. Supporting these individuals not only meets immediate needs but also promotes long-term solutions.

One practical solution is the concept of intentional charity. Instead of giving small sums to beggars daily, families could set aside their donations. Once an amount is collected, it could be given to someone in genuine need - such as a student struggling with tuition fees, a patient requiring medical treatment, or a worker facing financial hardship. A thoughtful and substantial contribution can have a meaningful impact and help break the dependency. Planning is crucial for this approach. Even small, carefully directed donations can go a long way in meeting short-term needs while fostering self-reliance and dignity. By supporting individuals who contribute to society, we encourage sustainable solutions and avoid perpetual dependency.

Handouts alone cannot solve poverty, as beggars are likely to return to the streets the next day. A more comprehensive approach is needed, addressing deeper issues such as lack of education, limited job opportunities and weak social safety nets. By tackling these systemic problems, the number of people who feel compelled to beg can be wisely reduced. Poverty reduction requires structural reforms that ensure education, employment and support systems, offering people alternatives to begging. Pakistan's approach to charity requires a fundamental shift. Instead of giving impulsively to beggars, we must focus on supporting those actively working to improve their lives. Thoughtful giving can make a lasting difference in communities, reshaping society in a positive way. It is not just about the act of giving, but about giving in a manner that has a real and lasting impact.