Neglecting Elderly Parents is a Punishable Offense: Jagtial RDO
The Division RDO and Senior Citizens Tribunal Chairman, P Madhusudhan, has reminded the public that neglecting the care and maintenance of elderly parents is a serious offense. Under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 (Section 24), such neglect can result in jail time and monetary fines.
Recently, a hearing was conducted in the RDO chamber in Jagtial, where multiple cases were registered under Sections 2(B), 4(1), and 24 of the Act. Complaints were lodged by elderly individuals, including Surakanti Lingareddy from Nagaram, Dharmapuri Mandal, Arike Boolakshmi from Pembatla, Sarangapur Mandal, Kenda Prameela from Pochammavada, Jagtial, and Endabetla Rajayya from Arpapalli, Sarangapur Mandal. These individuals accused their children and in-laws of neglecting their care and responsibilities.
Senior Citizens District President Hari Ashok Kumar represented the elderly complainants during the hearing. After listening to the complaints, reviewing witness statements, and providing counselling, the RDO issued a warning. The accused were informed that failing to comply with the law could lead to imprisonment for up to six months, along with financial penalties.
This serves as a strong reminder to families about their legal and moral obligations to care for their elderly parents.
