Minister seeks suggestions on rehabilitating destitute people

CHENNAI: Expressing concern over the rise in the number of destitute people in the country, Union social justice minister Thaawar Chand Gehlot on Wednesday said all stakeholders should share their views to find a solution for the problem.
The minister made the observation while chairing a pre-legislative consultation meeting on the Persons in Destitution (Protection, Care and Rehabilitation) Model Bill, 2016 convened by the ministry of social justice and empowerment in New Delhi.
Speaking on the occasion, Gehlot said that the bill would provide protection, care, support, shelter, training and other services to all people in destitution. The approach of the ministry towards addressing the problem of destitution/beggary is rehabilitative rather than punitive, he said.
Gehlot expressed his concern that the number of destitute people is increasing in the country, a statement quoting the minister said. The minister called upon all stakeholders to share their views and suggestions for the eradication of the problem of destitution.
Anita Agnihotri, secretary of social justice ministry, also spoke on the occasion.