New Delhi, The Supreme Court on Monday asked all states to submit fresh status reports on the establishment of old-age homes and the facilities available to senior citizens.
The bench was hearing a long-pending PIL, filed in 2016, seeking effective implementation of measures for the welfare and protection of the elderly.
During the hearing, Kumar, appearing in person, urged the bench to list and consider the matter, submitting that the continuing mandamus in the case had remained unheard for years despite issues concerning the rights and welfare of crores of elderly persons. The court permitted Kumar to appear and argue the matter in person and agreed to associate HelpAge India with the proceedings, noting the organisation’s role in the protection and welfare of elderly and infirm persons. The bench had also issued notice to the member-secretary of NALSA and asked the authority to place on record whether any scheme had been formulated to protect the rights of elderly persons.
The PIL has been pending before the apex court since 2016 and concerns the implementation of statutory and constitutional safeguards for elderly persons. In an earlier order passed on April 8, 2016, the top court issued notice to the Centre and sought the assistance of the National Legal Services Authority and HelpAge India in evolving measures for the protection of the rights and welfare of elderly persons across the country.
The CJI said that while the top court could lay down broad principles, the high courts could be asked to ensure their effective implementation.
