New Delhi, Sep 17 - Expressing satisfaction with measures taken to curb begging in the capital, Delhi High Court Thursday said the Delhi government was working hard to fight this social challenge.

A division bench comprising of Chief Justice Ajit Prakash Shah and Justice Manmohan said: 'The government has shown positive attitude in fighting this social challenge of begging. It's a good sign.'

The court further asked the additional solicitor general to assist the court in the matter and slated the next hearing for Oct 29.

The court was hearing a public interest petition filed by noted social activist Harsh Mander who contended poverty can never be a crime.

'If a person is destitute and begs for living, such a person cannot be treated as a criminal. He cannot be arrested or sentenced,' the petitioner said while referring to the plight of a destitute who was jailed and sentenced for begging.

The petition also challenged the constitutional validity of the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act.