Ghulam Jallani
Begging, a social issue that plagues our society, has been growing alarmingly in recent times. The once-sparse presence of beggars around religious places like Jama Masjid Alapir Poonch, other big and small Jammu mosques, and temples has snowballed into a significant menace. The consequences of unchecked begging are far-reaching, with drug abuse being just one of its disturbing outcomes. It is high time we take proactive measures to tackle this problem collectively, forging pillars of trust, mutual respect, and empathy in our Union Territory.
The origins of begging are complex and multifaceted, often stemming from poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to basic necessities. However, the rapid increase in beggars around religious sites indicates a worrying trend. It is crucial to remember that religious places should be spaces of solace, prayer, and spiritual reflection, not hubs for exploitation and destitution. The authorities must work alongside religious communities to devise a comprehensive plan to address this growing issue.
One of the evident consequences of unchecked begging is the perilous descent into drug abuse. Beggars, often trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty and desperation, may resort to drugs as a temporary escape from their harsh reality. This not only perpetuates their suffering but also poses a grave threat to public safety and order. By allowing begging to flourish unchecked, we inadvertently facilitate the rise of drug abuse, jeopardizing the future of our community.
We cannot merely rely on a messianic figure to solve this problem. Waiting for an “Avatar” or an external force to rescue us from this crisis is unrealistic and impractical. Instead, it is time for us to recognize that we, as responsible citizens, have a role to play in making our UT a beautiful place to live in. Let us pledge to act proactively, hand in hand, to combat this menace.
The first step towards eradicating begging is addressing the root causes. This involves investing in initiatives that uplift the impoverished, creating job opportunities, and providing access to quality education and healthcare. Collaborative efforts between the government, NGOs, and local communities can go a long way in breaking the cycle of poverty that perpetuates begging.
Drawing inspiration from the successful Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), the government can introduce a National Urban or State Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme to provide meaningful and dignified employment opportunities to those capable of working in urban areas. This would not only help in eradicating begging but also enhance the overall urban landscape and living standards.
However, it is important to acknowledge that not everyone may be capable of participating in the workforce due to various reasons, including health issues or age-related constraints. To address the needs of such vulnerable individuals, a Universal Basic Income (UBI) scheme can be implemented. This financial assistance can empower those who are unable to work, enabling them to meet their basic needs and lead a life with dignity. By providing this financial cushion, we can prevent individuals from falling into destitution and, in turn, reduce the prevalence of begging.
While implementing such ambitious schemes will undoubtedly require substantial financial resources, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. These initiatives can not only reduce the burden of begging on our society but also stimulate economic growth by fostering a more inclusive and stable community.
Additionally, it is crucial to couple these welfare programs with efforts to promote financial literacy, vocational training, and entrepreneurship among beneficiaries. By doing so, we empower individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become self-reliant, gradually reducing their dependency on government assistance.
To fund these schemes effectively, the government can explore various options, including tax reforms, budget reallocation, and public-private partnerships. It is essential to ensure that the funds are utilized efficiently and transparently, minimizing the risk of corruption and ensuring that the benefits reach those who need them the most.
As we embark on this journey to tackle the begging menace, we must embrace the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility. By involving all stakeholders – government, NGOs, religious institutions, and the public – we can create a society that upholds the values of trust, empathy, and compassion.
In conclusion, by refining our approach and implementing innovative welfare programs like the National Urban/State Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme and Universal Basic Income, we can take significant strides towards eliminating begging and drug abuse from our society. Let us stand united in building a UT where every individual can lead a life of dignity and contribute to the collective progress and prosperity. Together, we can create a beautiful and compassionate UT that paves the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.
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