Elderly Woman Rescued from Alleged Shackles in Amritsar, Shifted to Old-Age Home
In a distressing case from Amritsar, a 75-year-old woman, Prerna Devi, who was allegedly kept in shackles by her relatives and forced to live outside her home, has been rescued and shifted to an old-age home. The rescue operation, which took place on Friday night, has brought some relief after days of neglect and mounting public outrage over her plight.
Official Intervention and Shelter Arrangements
Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Dalwinderjit Singh confirmed on Saturday that officials moved Prerna Devi to Bhai Kanhaiya Ji Birdh Ghar, an old-age home where she will receive shelter and necessary medical support. He emphasized that the police would take appropriate action against those involved in her alleged maltreatment, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating this case.
How the Issue Came to Light
The issue first surfaced after the Just Sewa Society (JSS) received information from concerned neighbours in Janta Colony. According to reports, the elderly woman was thrown out of her home by her relatives and found chained and locked outside. A video showing Devi in shackles later went viral on social media, sparking widespread condemnation and drawing the attention of authorities.
In response, the Punjab State Commission for Women took suo motu cognisance of the matter and directed the Deputy Commissioner to conduct a thorough inquiry and submit a detailed report. This proactive step highlights the commission's commitment to addressing cases of abuse and ensuring justice for vulnerable individuals.
Medical Treatment and Alleged Interference
JSS secretary Harmanjit Singh revealed that the organisation's volunteers had admitted Prerna Devi to Guru Nanak Dev Hospital on April 14 and bore the cost of her treatment. However, her relatives allegedly got her forcibly discharged and again left her outside their home. Singh noted that her weight had dropped to a alarming 22 kg, indicating severe neglect and malnutrition.
He further alleged that the relatives argued with JSS members and even issued threats when they tried to intervene, showcasing the challenges faced by volunteers in their efforts to protect the elderly woman.
Legal Action Taken
Police have registered a case against the elderly woman's son and daughter-in-law under sections 126, 127 (4), 128, 129 of the Bhartiya Navya Sanhita and section 24 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. The case was filed at Police Station Civil Lines, marking a significant step towards holding the accused accountable for their actions.
This incident sheds light on the broader issue of elderly abuse in society and underscores the importance of community vigilance and legal mechanisms in safeguarding senior citizens. The rescue of Prerna Devi serves as a reminder of the need for stronger enforcement of laws protecting the elderly and increased awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future.
