AN ANALYSIS OF SENIOR CITIZENS AND PARENTS RIGHTS TO MAINTENANCE

Abstract

Ageing is a natural process of human life cycle. The population of the elderly people is steadily increasing, so the concern for welfare and maintenance of senior citizens is at apex. The younger generation has a responsibility to look after and care for the older. The custom of having a joint family has declined because of globalization. The current situation shows an increase in nuclear family system, which causes elderly people to be neglected and not receive the care and attention they need. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 is passed with the objective of providing for the maintenance to parents and senior citizens. The right for welfare of senior citizens is guaranteed and recognized under the Constitution of India. The fact remains that the Constitution of India does not expressly provide for any rights for parents and senior citizens except for the directive to the State to provide for public assistance in case of old age. This study focuses on the protection of the rights of older persons with respect to maintenance. The researcher tries to analyse the provisions for maintenance of senior citizens under personals laws in India. It further makes a study of existing personal and general laws of maintenance for parents and senior citizens in India.