Mizoram assembly clears bill to ban beggary, Opposition warns of stigma

While the government said the law would prevent an influx of beggars with the upcoming Sairang railhead, Opposition members argued it could tarnish Mizoram’s image and undermine Christian values.

Aizawl: The Mizoram Assembly on Wednesday passed a Bill to prohibit beggery in the state amidst objections by opposition members.

Introducing the 'Mizoram Prohibition of Beggary Bill, 2025, Social Welfare, Women and Child Development Minister Lalrinpuii said its objective is not only to prohibit begging, but also to assist and rehabilitate beggars by offering sustainable livelihood options.

She said there are concerns that beggary is increasing in Mizoram, although the state is very fortunate to have very few beggars due to its social social structure, involvement of churches and NGOs and the welfare measures and schemes being implemented in the state.

There is also an apprehension of an influx of beggars from outside the state with the arrival of railhead at Sairang-Sihhmui, she said.

The railway line is scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13.

The government is of the opinion that with proper regulatory frameworks in place, it can keep the state free from beggary, Lalrinpuii said.

The minister said that the government will form a state-level 'relief board', which will set up receiving centres for temporary retention of beggars.

Beggars will be first kept at the receiving centre and they will be sent to their native homes or states within 24 hours, she added.

According to the minister, there are more than 30 beggars, including non-locals, in state capital Aizawl according to a survey conducted by the social welfare department.

Opposition members, including MNF leader Lalchhandama Ralte, said the Bill is detrimental to the Christian faith and will bring bad reputation to the state.

They instead suggested a robust community involvement to stop beggary.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma said the main motive of the Bill is to help and rehabilitate beggars with the collective help of government, NGOs and churches to ensure that the state is free from beggary.

The Bill was passed by the legislature after prolonged deliberation involving 13 members, including Lalduhoma.