In recent years, the streets of Kashmir Valley have witnessed a troubling rise in the number of beggars. Every day, I encounter numerous beggars-on the streets, in public offices, at tourist destinations, and even in place of worship. Their presence is unavoidable, and it has become increasingly common to be approached by multiple beggars within a single day. This steady increase is not only overwhelming but also deeply unsettling.
A Conflict between Compassion and Doubt: Like many others, I feel conflicted when encountering beggars. On one hand, I feel empathy and a desire to help those who appear to be in need. However, on the other hand, I cannot help but wonder whether these beggars are genuinely in need or are merely taking advantage of people’s kindness. It seems that begging has evolved into a business for some, creating confusion for the average person-how can we differentiate between the deserving and the opportunistic?
The Rise Of Non-Local Beggars: One of the most noticeable trends is the influx of non-local beggars in the valley. When I ask these individuals where they are from, many mention distant states like Rajasthan, Bihar, U.P etc. This raises an important question: why are these individuals travelling from faraway regions to beg in Kashmir? Has begging become so profitable here that it attracts people
from across the country? It is concerning that the number of local beggars, further
complicating the situation.
The Commercialization Of Begging: The commercialization of begging is a disturbing reality. Many of us feel as though our generosity is being exploited. The line between genuine need and fraudulent intent is increasingly blurred, making it difficult to decide when to offer help. This situation is frustrating or everyone, particularly for the genuinely needy, who are often overshadowed by those who are simply exploiting the system.
The Need For Government Intervention: The absence of regulation has allowed this situation to spiral out of control. There is a pressing need for government intervention to distinguish between genuine and fake beggars. A strict policy should be implemented, ensuring that those who truly need assistance receive it, while those who exploit the system are identified. Such a policy would
protect citizens form being deceived and restore dignity to those in genuine need.
A Call For A Strict Policy On Begging: An act that differentiates between real and fake beggars must be introduced and enforced
rigorously. This would shield ordinary citizens from exploitation and ensure that aid reached the deserving. By introducing proper identification and regulation, the issue of fake begging could be significantly reduced, allowing people to help the needy without confusion or doubt.
“With the combined efforts of religious leaders, social activists, and government authorities, we can create a society where begging is minimized, and those in true need are supported with dignity.”
What Islam Teaches About Begging: Islam offers clear guidance on the issue of begging. While charity (Sadaqah) and helping the needy are encouraged. Islam discourages begging unless it is absolutely necessary. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, “The upper hand is better than the lower hand,”
emphasizing that it is better to give than to take. Islam advocates for self-reliance, hard work, and earning a livelihood, rather than seeking assistance through begging. However, there are exceptions for those genuinely unable to support themselves. Islam encourages society to care for these individuals through Zakat and organized charity, ensuring that the poor and needy are supported with dignity. At the same time, Islam warns against those who beg unnecessarily or turn begging into deceit. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever begs from people when he has enough to suffice him, he is asking for more of the embers of Hell.” This balance is Islam teaches that while we must help the genuinely needy, we must also
avoid encouraging dependence and fraud. The rise of begging among those who do not truly need it goes against the Islamic values of dignity and self-respect. Establishing a Baitul Maal System: An Islamic Solution One effective solution to the issue of begging lies in reviving the Baitul Maal system, as
described in Islam. The Baitul Maal (Central treasury) was historically responsible for collecting Zakat and Sadaqah and distributing it to those in need. If such a system were implemented at the neighbourhood level in Kashmir, it would ensure that the poor and deserving receive help without resorting to begging. Establishing a Baitul Maal system in every mohalla (neighbourhood) could eliminate the
need for begging and create a transparent process to prevent fraud. By organising and regulating charitable contributions, we can ensure that assistance reaches those who genuinely need it, while discouraging the commercialization of begging. If we, as a community, embrace this Islamic solution, we could significantly reduce the phenomenon of begging. The Baitul Maal would ensure that the truly needy are helped in a dignified manner, and the social fabric of our community would be strengthened. Such a system, paired with a government policy to regulate begging, could provide lasting relief to both the needy ad those trying to help.
The Role Of Religious Leader And Social Activists: Religious leader and scholars, especially local Imam sahabs, must take a proactive role in addressing this issue during their sermons. By raising awareness about the importance of organized charity and discouraging unnecessary begging, they can inspire communities to embrace the Baitul Maal System. Additionally, social activists should also play a positive role by advocating for government intervention and community-led solutions to ensure that only the genuinely needy receive help. With the combined efforts of religious leaders, social activists, and government authorities, we can create a society where begging is minimized, and those in true need are supported with dignity.
(The author is a freelancer. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
Irfan Rashid Khan
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