The federal government announced on Sunday that it plans to revoke the passports of more than 2,000 people involved in begging abroad.
Authorities have compiled a list from Pakistani embassies around the world and asked the Ministry of External Affairs for detailed information about these people.
According to official sources, their passports involved in begging abroad will be valid for seven years.
State officials have outlined the reasons behind the crackdown, saying that foreign begging not only has a negative impact on Pakistan, but also undermines the dignity of its citizens.
“Beggars traveling abroad are a disgrace to society,” said a spokesman for the Home Ministry, saying urgent action was needed.
In addition, the government has decided to exempt passport agents who help individuals apply abroad.
It is known that most of those who pray travel to countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq in the name of Hajj or Umrah and then pray.
Coordinated policy formulation work is underway by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to address this issue comprehensively.
Collecting data on individuals involved in begging abroad is an important step in implementing effective interventions.
