Archive · 19 Nov 2025
Maharashtra Removes Derogatory Terms from Anti-Begging Act
The Maharashtra government has decided to remove hurtful words like 'leper' from its anti-begging law.
The Supreme Court told all states to do this.
These changes will help people with leprosy feel respected and not be treated badly.
Maharashtra cabinet approves amendments to delete derogatory terms from the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959
Terms like 'leper', 'leprosy patient', 'leprosarium' to be omitted from the statute
Supreme Court directed states to remove demeaning terminology from laws
Amendments to sections 9 and 26 of the Act, dealing with detention and medical examination of beggars
Act criminalises begging and provides for arrest, inquiry, and rehabilitation of beggars
- Who
- Maharashtra cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
- What
- Approved amendments to remove derogatory terms from the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959
- When
- Tuesday
- Where
- Mumbai
- Why
- To comply with the Supreme Court's directive and ensure respectful language in laws
- Act Name
- Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959
- Sections Amended
- 9 and 26
- Derogatory Terms Removed
- 'leper', 'leprosy patient', 'leprosarium'
- Supreme Court Directive
- To remove demeaning terminology from laws