Supreme Court Judge Justice Surya Kant has issued a stark warning, stating that India's declining care for its elderly population risks triggering a 'civilisational tremor'. The judge emphasized the profound societal implications of neglecting senior citizens, framing it as a critical test for the nation's moral fabric.
A Stern Warning at High-Level Session
Justice Kant delivered this powerful message during a special session focused on the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens (MWPSC) Act. The high-profile event, held on 17 November 2025, saw the participation of key government figures, including Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Virendra Kumar and Social Justice Secretary Amit Yadav.
The session served as a platform to critically assess the implementation and effectiveness of the landmark legislation designed to protect India's aging population. The presence of such high-ranking officials underscored the gravity of the issue and the government's stated commitment to addressing it.
The Growing Crisis of Elder Care in India
Justice Surya Kant's comments highlight a deepening crisis within Indian families and society. The traditional joint family system, which once served as a natural safety net for the elderly, is rapidly eroding due to urbanization and changing social dynamics.
This shift has left many senior citizens vulnerable to neglect, abandonment, and financial insecurity. The judge's use of the term 'civilisational tremor' suggests that the problem is not merely a social issue but a fundamental challenge to the core values that have long defined Indian culture, where respecting and caring for one's elders is considered a sacred duty.
Call for Action and Strengthening the MWPSC Act
The special session likely involved discussions on practical steps to reinforce the legal framework for elder care. Key areas of focus would include:
- Ensuring stricter enforcement of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act.
- Creating faster and more accessible legal recourse for neglected elders.
- Promoting awareness about the rights of senior citizens and the obligations of their children.
- Developing better support systems, including old-age homes and healthcare facilities.
The involvement of Minister Virendra Kumar and Secretary Amit Yadav indicates that the government is actively seeking solutions. Justice Kant's powerful statement serves as a crucial catalyst, pushing for a national conversation and urgent policy action to prevent the predicted societal shock and uphold the dignity of every senior citizen.
