Mizoram bans begging, passes bill in state assembly

The Mizoram Assembly has passed a groundbreaking bill to prohibit begging within the state's borders. The Mizoram Prohibition of Beggary Bill, 2025, marks a major step toward addressing a growing social concern and proactively managing the state's future. The legislation is not merely punitive; it is designed to provide a comprehensive framework for both curbing begging and rehabilitating those involved.

The government's decision to bring in this bill was driven by a specific, forward-looking concern. With the Sairang railway station nearing completion and becoming operational, state authorities are anticipating a potential influx of beggars from neighboring states. The new law is intended as a pre-emptive measure to prevent this social issue from taking root and to maintain the state’s peaceful environment.

A central feature of the bill is the establishment of a state-level relief board. This board will be responsible for overseeing the entire process, from identification to rehabilitation. It is tasked with creating a structured approach to a complex social problem, ensuring that the new law is implemented with both efficiency and humanitarian considerations.

In addition to the relief board, the bill mandates the creation of dedicated receiving centers. These centers will act as a temporary shelter for individuals found begging. The goal is to provide a safe, secure location where they can be housed and their cases can be processed in an orderly manner.