KUWAIT CITY, July 4: The Mosques Affairs Department at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, in coordination with the Interior Ministry, has laid down a comprehensive plan to combat begging during the holy month of Ramadan, especially near the mosques, reports Al-Rai daily quoting sources.

Sources revealed the officials of both ministries met recently to discuss ways to stop begging because it is an insult to the Islamic society in Kuwait and a violation of the sanctity of the mosques.  Sources said the concerned security units have been instructed to intensify their efforts in tracking down beggars.

Recently the Immigration Department also issued instructions to restrict the issuance of visit visas just before Ramadan and during Ramadan. The Interior Ministry also said that it would take action against people sponsoring beggars.

Meanwhile, the International Center for Promoting Moderation is now under the supervision of the higher committee formed recently by acting Minister of Justice, Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Jamal Al-Shihab, reports Al-Rai daily quoting sources.

Sources confirmed Ministry of Awqaf Undersecretary Dr Adel Al-Falah has been appointed head of the committee whose members include Ali Al-Rayes from the Information Ministry, Bader Al-Fareeh from the Education Ministry, Jassem Ashkanani from the Social Affairs and Labor Ministry, and Major General Ali Al-Yousif from the Interior Ministry.

In a related development, sources said Al-Shihab formed another committee to handle the financial and administrative affairs of the center also under the leadership of Al-Falah with Assistant Undersecretary for Technical Coordination and Foreign Relations Dr Mutlaq Al-Qarawi and other officials as members.