The practice of sending children to beg on the streets is illegal in Fiji, a point emphasized by the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran. She outlined the profound dangers associated with such actions, which expose children to exploitation, abuse, and neglect, stripping them of their right to a safe upbringing.
In response to a recent newspaper article that reported on a woman named Mereseini Biaudamu, who was seen begging with two children in Nausori town, Minister Kiran clarified that the children were not actually hers. The Ministry’s investigation revealed that these children had been left in her care by their biological mother, who was unaware they were begging.
Kiran also pointed out that the families of these children receive ongoing financial assistance from the Ministry. She reiterated the legal responsibility of parents and guardians to protect their children, warning that any individual found complicit in promoting or facilitating begging will face legal repercussions.
The Ministry plans to work closely with law enforcement to ensure strict consequences for violators, and it encourages the public to report instances of child begging. Kiran’s plea aims to foster a collective effort towards creating a protective and compassionate environment for children, especially during the holiday season.
For anyone needing assistance or wishing to report concerning situations, the Child Helpline can be reached at 1325.
This commitment from the Ministry is a hopeful sign of proactive steps being taken to protect vulnerable children in society. Ensuring that every child has a safe and nurturing environment is not only a legal obligation but a moral one as well. With community engagement and support, there is a potential for fostering a safer future for all children in Fiji.
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