To check Trafficking, exploitation: Punjab orders DNA tests on child beggars, adults with them to determine parentage

She said the state government is implementing a policy to conduct DNA tests on children found begging on the streets, particularly those accompanied by adults, to combat child trafficking and exploitation. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a “beggar-free” Punjab and ensure the safety and security of children.

The Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development said that the step is essential to safeguard innocent lives and ensure that no child is being used or trafficked under the guise of guardianship.

Earlier in the say, the state government directed the deputy commissioners (DCs) across the state to conduct DNA tests of children found begging in streets. The orders have been issued by the Directorate of Social Security (women and child welfare) under Project Jeevanjyot-2.

District level Child Welfare Committee under Section 27 (9) may as per need, pass orders for conducting DNA test to ascertain the parentage of children and their accompanying adults in suspicious cases to child trafficking.

Approval of DNA testing will be given by DCs or ADCs. Samples will be collected by labs from the government hospitals of the district. The testing would be done by Forensic Science Laboratory free of cost. This would take around a week.

The DNA results will be documented and shared with the police. The confidentiality of the results will be maintained.

Until the DNA results are received, the child will be placed in a child care institution under the supervision of the District Child Welfare Committee. Those claiming to be the parents or guardians will not be allowed to take custody of the child until their claims are verified.

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