Rajasthan High Court Directs Comprehensive Review of Senior Citizen Homes
The Rajasthan High Court has taken a significant step toward ensuring the welfare of elderly residents by ordering a detailed assessment of all senior citizen homes operating across the state. In a landmark directive, the court has sought a comprehensive report on the facilities and welfare measures available at all 31 homes currently functioning in Rajasthan.
Court's Mandate for Adequate Care and Amenities
The division bench comprising Justice Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Sangeeta Sharma emphasized that the fundamental purpose of these institutions is only fulfilled when residents receive proper amenities, medical care, and comprehensive welfare support. The court stated clearly that proper functioning of these homes ensures that senior citizens residing therein are able to live in conditions of safety, dignity and care.
This judicial intervention came during the hearing of a petition filed by Lok Utthan Sansthan, with the order being issued on January 29 and subsequently uploaded on February 2. The bench further elaborated that periodic assessment of such facilities becomes a constructive exercise aimed at strengthening the welfare framework for the elderly.
Specific Reporting Requirements and Deadline
The court has directed the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority to file the detailed report by February 15, 2024. This comprehensive assessment must be conducted through respective district legal services authorities and cover each of the 31 homes individually. The report must specifically address several critical aspects:
- Whether the building has been constructed by the state government
- Whether the occupants are genuinely elderly persons
- Whether adequate medical facilities are available on premises
- Whether any financial aid, grant, or assistance is being extended by the government
- Any other issues pertaining to welfare and infrastructure
Legal Framework and Demographic Context
The court placed this directive firmly within the statutory framework of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, highlighting the legal obligations toward elderly care. This judicial action gains additional significance when viewed against India's changing demographic landscape.
The order referenced recent demographic data showing an ageing index of 39 in 2021, indicating 39 elderly persons per 100 children below 15 years. Furthermore, the old-age dependency ratio revealed 16 elderly persons per 100 working-age individuals. These statistics underscore the growing urgency to strengthen elderly care infrastructure across the state and nation.
This judicial intervention represents a proactive approach to ensuring that senior citizen homes in Rajasthan meet both legal standards and humanitarian expectations. By mandating this comprehensive review, the High Court aims to create a more robust welfare framework that genuinely serves the needs of Rajasthan's elderly population.
