Throughout the urban landscape, particularly around the shops and the public garden bridge (Pol-e-Baghomumi), and just beyond in Deh Afghanan in Kabul city, one encounters an array of beggars. Many of them have honed their skills in the craft begging to such an extent that they earn a decent livelihood from it; others have travelled from provinces and villages, unable to afford the fare to return home. Some carry multiple doctor’s prescriptions, seeking assistance styled in an array from ten to a thousand Afghanis. I shan’t even begin to speak of the venerable beggars, who, lacking limbs, move even the hearts of angels with their poignant tales.
Gender dynamics are also present in this field, exemplified by a veiled woman with a completely unclothed child in the biting cold, who implores you for money with such fervor that you might feel as if she has been your debtor for years, and you have simply forgotten.
Amidst this array of various forms of begging, new methodologies have emerged throughout the city. For instance, there are children and adolescents who, in a sudden rush, besiege you while seated, clinging to your legs; some of these familiar figures envelop your leg in an embrace as if they have never held anything in their life before.
This scenario leaves you with two options. If you chuckle and gently say, “My dear boy, please let go,” the little beggar will seize your other leg as well, and before you know it, a dozen more beggars will swarm upon you, leaving you with no choice but to part with your money to liberate yourself from their grasp. Otherwise, you may find yourself compelled to visit one of the city’s tailors to mend your torn trousers and garments.
In the alternate scenario, you might respond with irritation to this unpleasant urban phenomenon. Although they will release you, you will find yourself marked by the Beggars’ Union, landing on their blacklist. The following day, not only will your leg be targeted, but you may very well find yourself reported to the National Muggers Union, where they will take legal action against you for your perceived unjust behavior.”
- نویسنده : Afghanistan Women News Agency
- منبع خبر : Afghanistan Women News Agency
