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Hindustan Times
31-07-2025
- General
- Hindustan Times
Guest Column: Justice for elderly extends beyond legal framework
India is evolving rapidly on various fronts. In the health sector, life expectancy is increasing and as a result the population of the elderly is growing at an unprecedented rate. There are 14.9 crore people in India above the age of 60 and this number is likely to more than double by 2050. Since time immemorial, the care of parents has been revered as one of the highest duties. Across religious texts, the duty to care for one's parents is emphasised as a virtue, equating it with divine service. This concept is now under threat. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) Given this scenario, addressing the problems of the elderly is not only a social and health imperative but also at the very heart of our society's moral and legal conscience. This includes the obligations of children towards their parents and the rights of senior citizens from health, moral and legal standpoints. In a world that is rapidly modernising, the fundamental truth remains that our elderly are not a burden but the very foundation upon which we all build our lives. Since time immemorial, the care of parents has been revered as one of the highest duties. Across religious texts, the duty to care for one's parents is emphasised as a virtue, equating it with divine service. This concept is now under threat. The generational divide increases their likelihood of suffering neglect and abuse, verbally, physically, financially and even psychologically, which heightens their vulnerability. Breakdown of joint family The changing scenario is attributed to the breakdown of the joint family system. In addition, the migration to the city by young people has left many elderly isolated in rural areas or urban homes. Consequently, they suffer from social and financial difficulties. Rising health care and living costs add to their burden. Today, urbanisation and changing lifestyles is leading to diminished interaction between generations, accompanied by social isolation, loneliness and depression among senior citizens. Moreover, senior citizens fall victim to financial fraud, physical abuse, and abandonment, and property disputes, often at the hands of their own family members. According to a report by HelpAge India, nearly 50% of elders in urban India experience some form of abuse. Safeguarding rights The legal system provides mechanisms to safeguard the rights of senior citizens. Article 41 of the Constitution pertains to provision of public assistance for the elderly in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disability. Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, has been interpreted to include the right to dignity for the elderly. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, mandates for children and relatives to provide for elderly parents. The Hindu Succession Act, 1956, protects elderly parents' rights in ancestral and self-acquired properties and dispossession of elderly parents from property is dubbed as a punishable offence under the Maintenance and Welfare Act, Section 9. In order to safeguard the well-being of the elderly, and to enable them to be self-sufficient, the Government of India has implemented the National Policy for Older Persons. The ministry of social justice and empowerment has established the National Council for Older Persons (NCOP) with the primary goals of advising the government on appropriate policies, providing feedback on their implementation, initiating special programmes, establishing grievance cells for older individuals in both the government and corporate sectors. The Union government has initiated health programmes designed for the elderly, including the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana or Ayushman Bharat, which in short, offers free insurance coverage to senior citizens aged 70 or above. Build society that cares In spite of these provisions, the prevailing situation of the elderly remains worrisome. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, the cases of elder abuse have increased by 40%. A study by HelpAge India found that 52% of elders face neglect, with sons being the primary perpetrators in 35% of cases. Over 30% of India's elderly population suffers from financial insecurity despite their legal rights to maintenance. As a way forward, we must firstly go beyond legal frameworks and build a society where elderly care is a natural and cherished duty. Families must cultivate a culture of respect and emotional support for the elderly. Educational institutions can introduce value-based learning, emphasising care for the aged. Second, society must step in to provide companionship programmes, legal aid, and care-giving support. Public-private partnerships can create sustainable models for elderly care. Third, the government must ensure stronger legal enforcement with stricter penalties for elder abuse and financial exploitation. Enhanced monitoring mechanisms should be established to oversee the welfare of the elderly. Fourth, health programmes for the elderly need to be implemented efficiently while ensuring that those in remote areas are not neglected. A system of accountability must be put in place to ensure accessible, quality and comprehensive healthcare services for the elderly, irrespective of their ability to pay or location. Digital literacy programmes can help the elderly access services and stay informed about welfare schemes. Most importantly, however, is the crucial role of society in ensuring dignity, security, and care for the elderly. Delivering a lecture recently, Justice Aravind Kumar of the Supreme Court said, 'The elderly have spent their lives shaping society, nurturing families, and upholding traditions. It's our moral and legal responsibility to provide them with the respect and care they deserve.' Justice for the elderly extends beyond legal frameworks; it calls for compassion, love, and a collective commitment to their well-being. (Prof Kurien, a former deputy chairman of Rajya Sabha and Union minister, is chairman of the Indian Association of Parliamentarians on Population and Development. Dr Narain is a former director of World Health Organisation. Views expressed are personal.)
Time of India
19-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Chennai Seniors Combat Loneliness with Community Activities
Since retiring, N Ramakrishna has turned RK Nagar Park into more than just his morning walk route. It's now his stand-up stage. Every Saturday, notebook in hand, the 83-year-old performs for a small group of seniors, cracking jokes about everything from joint pain to politics. 'My jokes are mostly anecdotal, talking about imaginary awkward situations I've been in. I look forward to the open mic all week,' he says, adding that he now looks for a punchline in everything from doctor visits to daily errands. While a recent HelpAge India report says that nearly 50% of elders, especially those above 80 and living alone, cite loneliness as the most common negative feeling associated with ageing, a growing number of seniors in the city, such as Ramakrishna, are refusing to let isolation define their later years, choosing instead to build their own little communities around shared interests. From board games in community halls to pottery studio sessions, they're making every effort to stay socially and emotionally connected. RK Nagar Park association regularly hosts music sessions, TED-style talks, knowledge-sharing sessions, and informal debates, besides open mic programmes. They also facilitate an alternative community living setup by running daycares that serve as hangout joints for seniors. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai The Dignity Foundation, an organisation that works for the welfare and care of the elderly, says more elders are signing up for Tai Chi, basket weaving, carrom and pallanguzhi. 'I sign up so I can interact with people my age. Every evening, I go home looking forward to the next day's meet up,' says Sivagami V, a 74-year-old resident of Beach Road who leaves home at 7.30am as part of the foundation's day care programme. 'I live alone, and the loneliness can be overpowering at times. But here there's someone to ask me how I am doing, and I'm grateful.' 'We promote intergenerational events as well, like we recently held a fashion show where seniors walked the ramp wearing designs put together by youngsters from the National Institute of Fashion Technology,' says Merita Joseph, chapter head of the Dignity Foundation in Chennai. 'It was exciting,' says Nirmala Krishnaswamy, one of the models. 'Walking along with my husband on the ramp was such a special moment.' Merita says that when The Dignity Foundation was established 27 years ago, it had a magazine by seniors for seniors, where it was mostly health and wellness that was discussed. 'Over the years, it has become more about creating spaces for seniors to meet each other and hang out because we realised that was what they needed more, a sense of belonging,' she says. Today, the Foundation's programmes have also been extended to underprivileged communities, free of cost. Gated communities are also going the extra mile by creating exclusive seniors' clubs. Alliance Galleria Residences in Pallavaram has more than 500 members in its seniors' club, where elders celebrate observance days and go on trips together. 'My daughter lives overseas, and I live alone here,' says Usha Raghothaman, a resident. 'Initially, I felt cooped up as I had no friends to meet and didn't have anyone who could take me outside. Since I've joined the club, I have been to Yelagiri to celebrate Valentine's Day, Kanjeevaram on temple tours, and visits to beaches in the city. This group has become an extended family for me,' says the 76-year-old. NUMBERS TALK: 1. 73% of elders believe technology can help them connect with youth, but only 13% use digital tools like social media, email, or video calling 2. 87% of youth and 84% of elders said discussing personal matters is their main mode of connection Source: HelpAge India INBO Report 2025
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Maha activist Varsha Deshpande becomes third Indian to get UN Populations Award
Kolhapur: Varsha Deshpande of Satara-based Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal, which works for the upliftment of socially backward women from rural India, has become the third Indian after former PM Indira Gandhi (1983) and industrialist-philanthropist JRD Tata (1992) to receive the prestigious United Nations Populations Award in the individual category. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now She was conferred the award at the UN, New York, on Friday. "Deshpande is a pioneering women's rights activist with more than 35 years of experience working on gender-based violence, discrimination and gender. She founded the Dalit Mahila Vikas Mandal in 1990 to advance women's rights and gender justice. She tirelessly works to empower grassroot women by building their vocational skills, connecting them to vital resources and services and fostering their financial independence. She has also played a pivotal role in addressing gender-biased sex selection, championing legal reforms and behaviour change through community engagement and advocacy," read the statement issued by the UN. Among her pioneering contributions, Deshpande worked to fight against gender-biased sex selection. In a written statement, the social worker said, "The award is the recognition of my efforts to address gender-biased sex selection and declining sex ratio. It is a tribute to the collective work of countless individuals. The award reinforces the importance of investing in the value of women and girls." HelpAge India, the group working with and for disadvantaged elderly people in India for four decades, is serving their needs and enabling them to live active, dignified, and healthier lives. It was the recipient of the UN Population Award in 2020 in the institutional category. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Each year, the committee for the United Nations Population Award honours an individual and/or institution in recognition of outstanding contributions to population and reproductive health issues and solutions. The award was established by the General Assembly in 1981, in resolution 36/201, and was first presented in 1983. It is now in its fortieth year. It consists of a gold medal, a diploma, and a monetary prize.
Time of India
28-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Ungrowing old: How seniors are tackling loneliness
CHENNAI: Since retiring, N Ramakrishna has turned RK Nagar Park into more than just his morning walk route. It's now his stand-up stage. Every Saturday, notebook in hand, the 83-year-old performs for a small group of seniors, cracking jokes about everything from joint pain to politics. 'My jokes are mostly anecdotal talking about imaginary awkward situations I've been in. I look forward to the open mic all week,' he says, adding that he now looks for a punchline in everything from doctor visits to daily errands. While a recent HelpAge India report says that nearly 50% of elders, especially those above 80 and living alone, cite loneliness as the most common negative feeling associated with ageing, a growing number of seniors in the city, such as Ramakrishna, are refusing to let isolation define their later years, choosing instead to build their own little communities around shared interests. From board games in community halls to pottery studio sessions, they're taking every effort to stay socially and emotionally connected. RK Nagar Park association regularly hosts music sessions, TED-style talks, knowledge-sharing sessions, and informal debates, besides open mic programmes. They also facilitate an alternative community living setup by running daycares that serve as hangout joints for seniors. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai T he Dignity Foundation, an organisation that works for the welfare and care of the elderly, says more elders are signing up for Tai Chi, basket weaving, carrom and pallanguzhi. 'I sign up so I can interact with people my own age. Every evening, I go home looking forward to the next day's meet up,' says Sivagami V, a 74-year old resident of Beach Road who leaves home at 7.30am as part of the foundation's day care pro gramme. 'I live alone, and the loneliness can be over powering at times. But here there's someone to ask me how I am doing, and I'm grateful.' 'We promote intergenerational events as well, like we recently held a fashion show where seniors walked the ramp wearing designs put together by youngsters from the National Institute of Fashion Technology,' says Merita Joseph, chapter head of the Dignity Foundation in Chennai. 'It was ex citing,' says Nir mala Krishnaswamy, one of the models. 'Walking along with my husband on the ramp was such a special moment.' Merita says that when The Dignity Foundation was established 27 years ago, it had a magazine by seniors for seniors where it was mostly health and wellness that was discussed. 'Over the years it has become more about creating spaces for seniors to meet each other and 'hang out' because we realised that was what they needed more, a sense of belonging,' she says. Today, the Foundation's programmes have also been extended to underprivileged communities free of cost. Gated communities are also going the extra mile by creating exclusive seniors' clubs. Alliance Galleria Residences in Pallavaram has more than 500 members in its seniors' club, where elders celebrate observance days and go on trips together. 'My daughter lives overseas and I live alone here,' says Usha Raghothaman, a resident. 'Initially, I felt cooped up as I had no friends to meet and didn't have anyone who could take me outside. Since I've joined the club, I have been to Yelagiri to celebrate Valentine's Day, Kanjeevaram on temple tours, and visits to beaches in the city. This group has become an ex tended family for me,' says the 76-year-old. NUMBERS TALK 1. 73% of elders believe technology can help them connect with youth, but only 13% use digital tools like social media, email, or video calling 2. 87% of youth and 84% of elders said discussing personal matters is their main mode of connection Source: HelpAge India INBO Report 2025
The Hindu
18-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Experts stress importance of early identification of elder abuse signs
The importance of early identification of signs of elder abuse was stressed during a day-long programme organised by the Department of Geriatric Medicine, Jipmer and Help Age India, in connection with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2025 recently. According to a press note, the 2025 edition of the observance, themed, 'Be Bold: Age with Attitude,' aimed at sensitising the senior citizens, public and caregivers to the growing concern of elder abuse and the importance of prevention, reporting, and offering legal protection. G. Venugopalan, Associate Professor, Department of Geriatric Medicine, Jipmer, who elaborated on the forms of elder abuse and risk factors, stressed the need for early identification and timely intervention. Fromsi Lukose, Social Service Officer, focused on various prevention strategies and highlighted the role of families, caregivers, and society in creating a safe and respectful environment for the elderly. She also stressed the importance of empowering older persons to speak up and seek help when needed. Addressing a session on legal aspects and social protection of elders, Venugopal Ramalingam, Director, HelpAge India, Puducherry and Cuddalore, outlined the several legal provisions and support systems available for protection of the elderly and urged stakeholders to utilise them effectively. As part of the programme, educational handouts were distributed to promote awareness on elder abuse prevention and the helpline 14567. The pamphlets illustrated the various ways in which the problem manifests — physical harm, emotional harassment, deprivation, verbal and nonverbal abuse causing mental distress, and financial or sexual forms of abuse. Among the typical signs of elder abuse are unexplained injuries or bruises, changes in behaviour or mood, financial distress, poor hygiene or nutrition and isolation from friends and family. Victims were also urged to report instances of abuse to doctors, social workers, or NGOs. Around 80 elderly people and their caregivers benefited from the event, the press note said.
