Madras High Court Emphasises State's Duty To Protect Senior Citizens

The Madras High Court has upheld the state's responsibility to protect older individuals, particularly when familial support networks fail. 

Justice L. Victoria Gowri said that in a democratic country, it is the state's obligation to provide the safety and security of old people abandoned by their relatives.

The court made these comments while hearing a plea from N. Pandiammal, a 76-year-old woman from Kamuthakudi hamlet in Ramanathapuram district. 

She claimed that an individual tried to infringe on her inherited land with the help of revenue authorities. Despite her representation under Rule 20 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Rules, 2009, nothing was done, causing her to seek court intervention.

Justice Gowri praised the Ramanathapuram district collector for directing subordinate revenue authorities to investigate the matter. 

Taking note of the pending investigation, the court directed the Paramakudi tahsildar to expedite the probe, provide all parties an opportunity to be heard, and, if required, remove any detected encroachments from the land.

Broader Context and State Initiatives

This particular case highlights the growing issues that senior individuals typically face, where conventional family arrangements give way to the nuclear structure and the elderly often have to face neglect.

Incidentally, the Tamil Nadu government has launched many initiatives for the welfare of the elderly.

Policy Framework: The 'Tamil Nadu State Policy on Senior Citizens - 2023' aims to address multiple issues. These issues are; senior safety, mental health, and neurological difficulties. Despite its release, understanding of the policy remains low among the people. 

Old Age Homes: The Madras High Court has asked the state to create old age homes in all districts within six months, in accordance with the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. 

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and philanthropic groups are currently the primary operators of such institutions, with government funds.

Financial Support: In July 2023, the state government boosted monthly pensions under social security systems from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,200, benefitting nearly three million residents.

Elderly Care Training: The government also started a three-month certificate course for 'Home-Based Senior Care Support Assistants'. The initiative has been introduced in 36 government medical institutions. It aims to mee