Punjab govt strengthening legal protection for senior citizens: Minister

Chandigarh, Jul 18 (PTI) The Punjab government said on Saturday it is strengthening legal protection for senior citizens by ensuring speedy justice, protecting property rights, and providing better institutional support under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said the Bhagwant Mann government is committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of elderly people across the state. She said the Act provides a legal mechanism to protect senior citizens from neglect, abandonment and financial insecurity, and that children and legal heirs are legally and morally responsible for maintaining parents who cannot support themselves. The minister said senior citizens can seek monthly maintenance through a simple and time-bound process, avoiding lengthy legal proceedings. She highlighted the state's Elder Line helpline (14567), saying senior citizens facing emotional, legal or physical distress can seek free assistance through the service. Dr Kaur directed officials to organise district-level awareness campaigns to educate senior citizens about their legal rights and welfare schemes, calling for the participation of NGOs and prominent citizens. The minister said the government regularly organises health camps to provide free medical check-ups and healthcare services to senior citizens near their homes. She said parents and senior citizens seeking maintenance or legal protection under the Act can file complaints with the District Social Security Officer or the concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), who functions as the Maintenance Tribunal for speedy case disposal. Applications can also be filed through authorised representatives or recognised NGOs, making the grievance redressal process more accessible, she said, adding that the Act contains strict provisions against those who neglect or mistreat senior citizens. If an elderly person transfers property on the condition of receiving care and maintenance, and the recipient fails to fulfil that obligation, the Maintenance Tribunal can declare the transfer or gift deed void. The Act provides for establishing old-age homes and appointing Maintenance Officers to strengthen support for senior citizens, she said. Appealing to people to care for elderly family members, the minister said respecting and supporting senior citizens is not only a legal responsibility but also a reflection of Punjab's cultural and moral values. PTI VSD ASD ASD