Aizawl, August 28: The Mizoram Assembly on Wednesday passed the Mizoram Prohibition of Beggary Bill, 2025, with the government stressing that its goal is rehabilitation and prevention rather than punishment.
Introducing the bill, Social Welfare, Women and Child Development Minister Lalrinpuii said Mizoram has very few beggars owing to strong social structures, active involvement of churches and NGOs, and existing welfare schemes. However, concerns of a possible rise in beggary have emerged with the upcoming inauguration of the Bairabi-Sairang railway line by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13.
The bill prohibits individuals from begging and criminalises instances of forced beggary. It also provides for the establishment of a state-level relief board and receiving centres to temporarily house beggars. These centres, in collaboration with NGOs and churches, will aim to reunite beggars with their families or send them to their native places within 24 hours. Those without family support will be placed in rehabilitation centres and provided sustainable livelihood opportunities.
According to a survey by the Social Welfare Department, over 30 beggars, including non-locals, currently reside in Aizawl. Lalrinpuii stressed that with timely intervention from local authorities and church organisations, most could be rehabilitated.
Opposition members, including MNF leader Lalchhandama Ralte, opposed the bill, arguing it could contradict Christian values and potentially tarnish the state’s image. They suggested relying more on community-based solutions.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma, however, clarified that the law’s focus is on rehabilitation, not penalisation, and assured that Mizoram would remain free from beggary through a collective effort of the government, NGOs, and churches.
The bill was passed after extensive deliberations involving 13 legislators.
