Daily Times

Sir: Several letters have been published in this space over the last two weeks about the arrival of thousands of beggars in Lahore on Eid. I agree with the opinions expressed in the letters, especially on the issue of the begging cartels and how they use the occasion to mint money at the expense of those they have kidnapped, maimed, and are holding in bondage. However, I would like to add that it is on this occasion that a lot of children are kidnapped from the streets. Last year, several reports were filed in Punjab. Investigations in some of those cases led to these begging cartels who were holding the children hostage. Therefore, this sudden influx of beggars on Eid must be curtailed, as it is quite obvious they are being commanded by their cartels. However, I also agree that the deserving among these must be taken care of. And in addition, those that are being held by these cartels against their will should be freed through police action immediately. This is a shameful exercise and it is sad that we have not been able to curb begging cartels in this country.
NAZIA AFZAL
Lahore