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Karnataka High Court Flags Delay in Appointing Nodal Officer for Child Beggary
Admin 01-04-2026 Administrative law

The Karnataka High Court criticized the State government for not appointing a nodal officer to coordinate anti-child-beggary efforts and demanded an explanation for the inaction

On April 1, 2026, a Division Bench of the Karnataka High Court (Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Poonacha) questioned the State about its failure to designate a nodal officer tasked with overseeing measures against child beggary across various departments.

The matter arose from a PIL filed by Letzkit Foundation, which sought to stop children from selling goods like toys, flowers, and earbuds at busy traffic junctions. Previously, on January 22, 2026, the court had instructed the State to appoint a nodal officer in line with recommendations from the State Legal Services Authority.

The government informed the court that a 12-member committee had been formed and met on March 18, 2026, including officials from NIMHANS, police, and child welfare departments. However, the nodal officer had still not been appointed. The court also asked why the January 22 order had not been uploaded online, emphasizing the need for timely implementation and transparency in child protection measures.

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