Maharashtra’s “Prevention of Begging” Bill Clears Legislative Council Amid Chaos
Maharashtra
Despite chaotic scenes and vocal protest from several members, the Maharashtra Legislative Council passed the Prevention of Begging Bill — marking a new chapter in state’s social-welfare laws.
Nagpur, December 10, 2025 – The state legislature in Nagpur has passed the “Prevention of Begging” Bill even as several members voiced strong objections to its handling inside the house. The bill had already cleared the lower house; now the Legislative Council has also approved it during a winter session marked by disorder and dissent. Some legislators, including members from various parties and even the Council chairperson, registered their displeasure over the process, arguing that the bill’s passage occurred under chaotic conditions without adequate discussion.
According to critics, the legislation’s approval under such circumstances raises doubts about due legislative scrutiny. Members said that the agenda book and explanatory notes provided to them did not sufficiently clarify critical aspects of the bill, leading to confusion over its scope and potential implications. The friction highlights growing unease about how certain laws are being pushed through during the ongoing winter session.
Supporters of the bill argue that it aims to address a long-standing social issue — begging and related exploitation and that the law could strengthen welfare and public-order systems. Given the government’s stance, the legislation may introduce new preventive measures, social support mechanisms, and regulatory oversight intended to curb begging and associated offences. These supporters see the law as a step toward protecting marginalized communities and urban spaces alike.
However, the discontent voiced during the session suggests that the political debate over civil liberties, social justice, and effective legislation is far from settled. Several legislators demanded a deeper evaluation of how the bill defines “begging,” what punishments and rehabilitation provisions it includes, and whether implementing authorities will have adequate safeguards to avoid misuse. Some raised the fear that vulnerable people — like homeless individuals, migrants or economically marginalized citizens — could become targets under overly broad interpretations.
As the bill moves forward into its next phases of implementation, public attention is likely to focus on these details: how “begging” is defined; what mechanisms for rehabilitation or social welfare are built in; and how authorities will balance enforcement with human rights. Whether the law successfully addresses begging without unjustly penalizing the disadvantaged will shape public perception and political response in the coming months.
For now, the passage of the bill marks a significant legislative shift in Maharashtra. The controversy surrounding its approval reflects the larger challenge of addressing social problems through legislation — especially when speed, procedure, and oversight come under question.
