Begging To Be A Crime In Mizoram, Bill Passed In The Assembly

• By Thetripurapost Desk, Aizwal
• Aug 29, 2025
• 518

Begging will now be a crime in Mizoram. A bill for this has been passed in the assembly. 

The number of beggars in Mizoram is very less. But after the opening of the railway station in Sairang-Sihmuai, there is a possibility of beggars coming to the state from outside. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate this railway line on 13 September.

Introducing the Bill, Social Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii said the legislation seeks not only to ban begging but also to assist beggars through rehabilitation and sustainable livelihood options. She noted that while Mizoram has very few beggars due to its strong social structure, church involvement, and welfare schemes, concerns have been raised over a possible increase in begging—particularly with the new railhead at Sairang-Sihhmui, which could lead to an influx from outside the state.

Under the Bill, the government will establish a state-level relief board and set up receiving centres where beggars will be temporarily accommodated. They will then be repatriated to their native homes or states within 24 hours. A Social Welfare Department survey recently found over 30 beggars, including non-locals, in Aizawl.

Opposition members, led by MNF leader Lalchhandama Ralte, opposed the legislation, calling it “detrimental to the Christian faith” and warning it could tarnish Mizoram’s reputation. They suggested greater community-driven measures instead of legal restrictions.

Defending the move, Chief Minister Lalduhoma said the primary motive is rehabilitation, to be achieved through collective efforts of the government, NGOs, and churches.

After a prolonged debate involving 13 members, the House passed the Bill.