The bill provides for the establishment of a state-level relief board and temporary receiving centres for beggars.

Guwahati, Mizoram: The Mizoram Assembly on Wednesday (August 27) passed the Mizoram Prohibition of Beggary Bill, 2025, a bill to curb begging in the state. It lays down provisions to building long-term support systems to the affected beggars through sustainable livelihood opportunities.

After introducing the bill, Mizoram’s Social Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii expressed concern the railways might attract more beggars once the Sairang railway station is operational.

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The newly constructed Sairang-Sihhmui rail section, part of the broad-gauge line to Aizawl, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13.

“Aizawl has more than 30 beggars, most of them outsiders. There is a fear that the railways might bring in more beggars,” The Hindu quoted, as the Minister is saying.

She said that Mizoram needed proper procedure to manage unexpected problems that could arise from a potential increase in beggars from other states after railway services start.

The bill provides for the establishment of a state-level relief board and temporary receiving centres for beggars. The beggars would either be rehabilitated or sent back to their home states within 24 hours of their arrival.

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Although the bill was passed, Opposition MLAs, including Mizo National Front leader Lalchhandama Ralte, argued that the proposed law was against the Christian faith and would harm Mizoram’s reputation. They presented a strong community-based programme as a solution to prevent beggary.