HRC comes to rescue of a senior citizen
The complaint before the commission highlighted three key issues: Arbitrary deactivation of Parivar Pehchan Patra; denial of housing assistance under government schemes; and inhuman and unsanitary living conditions in an old-age home.
The complainant, a verified beneficiary under the Antyodaya category, had reported that his Parivar Pehchan Patra was deactivated without any prior notice, enquiry, or opportunity to be heard.
As a result, he was deprived of multiple welfare schemes, including Antyodaya Anna Yojana and Old-Age Pension.
Murwala, who is landless, homeless, and socio-economically disadvantaged, had also alleged that despite fulfilling eligibility criteria, he was not allotted any accommodation or assistance under either the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) or Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana (MMAY).
He continued to live without proper housing, despite repeated appeals to authorities.
Regarding unhygienic conditions at Red Cross Old-Age Home in Panipat, the complainant had alleged that the living conditions at the facility are extremely unsanitary and unsafe, posing a risk to health and dignity.
Commission Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra has termed the matter as a 'serious case of administrative failure and insensitivity', further stating that the actions, or inactions, violate the complainant's right to live with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution, and statutory duties under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007.
In his detailed order, Justice Batra has issued immediate verification and reactivation of the deactivated Parivar Pehchan Patra, submission of a detailed report by the authorities, explaining the deactivation, steps taken for restoration, and future preventive measures.
The Housing for All Department of the Haryana government has been directed to reassess the complainant's eligibility and, if found eligible, allot a 100 square yard residential plot or provide alternate housing support.
All concerned departments have been directed to submit Action Taken Reports to the commission before the next hearing, scheduled for October 15.
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