Human Rights of Eldely Persons in India: A Study

ABSTRACT

Ageing is a natural process of human life cycle. The number of elderly persons is increasing steadily, therefore the concern for welfare and well-being of senior citizens is the need of the hour. Senior citizens have long played a significant role in society. They are viewed as an essential component of society. We regard them as a pillar of the home. As they grow old the responsibility is shifted on the younger generation to look after and care for the elderly persons. Traditionally the family system was blended and the family members used to take care of the elderly. But since the time of globalization the nuclear family system has replaced the joint family system. Therefore, the old aged persons are left on their own. In the current scenario the population of senior citizens is growing steadily and this demographic transition was never anticipated by the lawmakers. The Indian Constitution recognises and guarantees older citizens right to welfare. The Indian Constitution does not specifically grant any rights to parents or senior persons, with the exception of directing the State to arrange for public support for those who become incapacitated. The studys main objective is to safeguard senior citizens legal rights. The goal of this study is to determine if the current legislative framework and its statutory laws are sufficient. It further tries to check the effectiveness of laws in safeguarding the rights and dignity of senior citizens.

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