NPP urges Nagaland government to ban begging

DIMAPUR — Citing concerns over security, illegal immigration, and drug-related activities, the Nagaland unit of National People’s Party (NPP) has urged the state government to introduce a law banning begging in public places.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the party welcomed the Mizoram Legislative Assembly’s recent move to prohibit begging and said that Nagaland too should adopt similar measures.

“While cases of begging in Nagaland are currently very negligible, there is genuine concern that such practices could encourage illegal immigrants to exploit public sympathy and gradually pose social, demographic, and security challenges to the state.

“It is also worth mentioning that most persons indulging in begging in Nagaland are outsiders, and many are suspected to be involved in illegal activities such as petty theft, drug abuse, and even acting as carriers or informers for anti-social elements. Allowing such practices unchecked would pose serious risks to peace and security in the state,” the statement read.

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With the expansion of railway network, the NPP argued that stricter regulations were necessary to safeguard peace and security.

It recommended that the state government consider introducing a ‘Nagaland Begging Prohibition and Rehabilitation Bill’ that would not only ban organised begging but also provide rehabilitation and vocational support to genuine local cases.

The party outlined objectives for the proposed law, including prevention of misuse by illegal immigrants, protection and care for genuine cases, maintenance of public order and dignity in marketplaces and places of worship, and deterrence against unwanted entrants exploiting easier connectivity.

“Nagaland must act proactively before the problem escalates, ensuring both law enforcement and social welfare are balanced in the interest of the people,” it stated.