AP Govt enforces state-wide ban on begging

The Andhra Pradesh government has taken a major step towards eliminating begging across the state by enforcing the “Begging Prohibition (Amendment) Act, 2025.” The law came into effect after receiving the Governor’s assent and was officially notified in the State Gazette on October 27. With this, begging in any form is now considered a criminal offence throughout Andhra Pradesh.

The government noted that begging had evolved into an organized network, with certain groups exploiting the poor and destitute for financial gain. The new legislation aims not only to curb this menace but also to rehabilitate those engaged in begging, helping them regain dignity and access to welfare schemes. Implementation will be jointly monitored by the Departments of Welfare and Police.

As part of the reform, the government also revised outdated terminology in the 1977 Begging Prohibition Act following recommendations from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Terms like “Leper” and “Lunatic”, considered derogatory, have been replaced with “person affected by leprosy” and “person with mental illness.”

The amendments, unanimously passed in both Houses and approved through G.O. Ms. No. 58, reflects a move toward more respectful and humane language in state laws while reinforcing Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to social justice and human dignity.