In view of increase in child beggers in south Indian state Kerala, the Anti-Human Trafficking Cell of the state Police has drawn up plans to launch a 15-day 'anti-child beggary drive' from June 1.
A number of local and outside state gangs, who kidnap children and use them for beggary, are active in the state.
Children are their trumpcards while begging as they could easily win the sympathy of people.
Many NGOs and voluntary groups have complained about the rampant presence of child beggers and brutal torturnes they suffer from beggary mafia.
Police said searches will be intensified to nab such gangs and release and rescue children invovling in child beggary as part of the drive.
Children resuced will be presented before the Child Welfare Committees concerned and legal action will be initiated against those who forced them into beggary.
S Sreejith, the nodal officer of the Anti-Human Trafficking Cell, said the drive would also focus on rescuing children engaged in child labour.
"The department is planning to seek the cooperation of the Social Welfare Department, Child Welfare Committees and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the drive to make
the programme a success. Minor children involveing in child labour will also be rescued," he said.
Those who employ children below the age of 18 for domestic work and other jobs would be punished, the official said.
Special squads have been formed in all police station limits across the state to prevent child labour and beggary.
Facilities have also been arranged for people to pass information in this regard to police, he added.