Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Punjab Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that every senior citizen in the state lives with dignity, respect, and security. Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government is fully dedicated to the welfare and protection of elderly citizens.
Addressing the issue, Dr. Baljit Kaur described the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 as a landmark legislation that provides strong legal safeguards to protect elderly people from neglect, abandonment, and financial insecurity.
She said the Act makes it the legal and moral responsibility of children and legal heirs to support parents who are unable to maintain themselves. The legislation also ensures that senior citizens can claim monthly maintenance through a simple, accessible, and time-bound mechanism without undergoing lengthy legal procedures or unnecessary administrative delays.
Minister also highlighted the state-run Elder Line (National Helpline: 14567), which offers free assistance to senior citizens facing mental, legal, physical, or other difficulties. She said the helpline serves as a reliable support system where elderly citizens can seek guidance and timely resolution of their concerns.
Emphasising awareness and healthcare as government priorities, Dr. Baljit Kaur directed departmental officials to conduct district-level awareness campaigns so that senior citizens are informed about their legal rights and welfare schemes.
She informed that parents and senior citizens seeking maintenance or legal protection under the Act can file complaints with the District Social Security Officer or the concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), who functions as the Maintenance Tribunal and is responsible for ensuring timely disposal of cases.
Minister added that applications can also be submitted by an authorised representative or a recognised non-governmental organisation (NGO), making the process more convenient and accessible for elderly applicants.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further said the law contains strict provisions against those who neglect senior citizens. If an elderly person transfers property to someone on the condition that they will provide care and maintenance, but the recipient fails to fulfil that obligation, the Maintenance Tribunal has the authority to cancel the property transfer or registration.
Act also provides for the establishment of old-age homes and the appointment of maintenance officers to strengthen the support system for senior citizens across the state.
Appealing to the public, the minister said that elderly family members are the foundation of society and deserve love, care, and respect. She stressed that looking after them is not only a legal obligation but also an integral part of Punjab’s cultural heritage and moral values.
