THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Nov. 17: A legal awareness programme focusing on the maintenance rights of parents and senior citizens under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, was organised today by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Ranchi. The event, held at the instruction of the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA), was held at Vriddha Ashram Apna Ghar, Hesag, and Adarsh Ashram, Kulgu.
Focus on Maintenance Rights for Parents and Elderly Citizens
Deputy LADC Rajesh Kumar Sinha explained the key provisions of the 2007 Act, which make children and relatives legally responsible for the maintenance of parents and senior citizens. This includes food, clothing, housing, and medical care. He also shared information about the services offered by the District Legal Services Authority, Ranchi.
The DLSA team visited both old age homes, interacted with the residents, asked about their health, listened to their concerns, and discussed possible solutions.
Living Conditions, Food, and Medical Support Reviewed
Assistant LADC Pankaj Kumar Sharma spoke with the elderly about their living conditions and food quality. He and Sinha also discussed arrangements for hospital care and medicines during illness. They informed residents that DALSA’s PLVs are available at Sadar Hospital, Ranchi, and RISM, and can be contacted by telephone if needed.
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Benefits Explained Under the Senior Citizens Act, 2007
During the awareness session, Sinha and Sharma highlighted the main benefits of the Act:
Mandatory maintenance: Children and relatives must provide basic needs and medical support.
Fast and simple process: Maintenance Tribunals at the district level handle claims quickly and affordably.
Property protection: Senior citizens who transfer property are protected if care and basic amenities are not provided.
Protection from neglect: The Act includes measures to address abandonment and neglect.
Support facilities: States are encouraged to set up old-age homes in every district and ensure proper medical care.
Time-bound settlements: Maintenance cases should generally be resolved within 90 days.
At the end of the programme, DLSA’s PLVs distributed leaflets and pamphlets to the residents.
