Kerala becomes the first State in India to establish an exclusive ‘Senior Citizens’ Commission’, which will look into issues like neglect, abuse, and the rights of elderly people. Moreover, it will also help in making policies and giving support for their welfare and rehabilitation. This new entity comes in the wake of India witnessing a silent crisis with elderly population facing untold hardships more so at the hands of their own family members.
The senior citizen can report to the Commission regarding any family member, relative or legal heir who has the duty for the care and welfare of a Senior Citizen under Section 4, fails to do so or fails to make provision for his care and welfare, seeking care and welfare. Where the family member, relative or legal heir who fails to comply with the order passed by the Commission under Sub Section (3) shall, on conviction, be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months or with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees or with both. 6. (6) The fine realised under Sub Section (5) shall be paid to the Senior Citizen who filed the complaint.
The Kerala State Senior Citizens Commission has been constituted under the Kerala Senior Citizens Commission Act, 2025, passed by the state legislature in March this year. It will work for the welfare and protection of the elderly and provide guidelines and assistance for their rehabilitation.
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