MP introduces Bill to strengthen rights, dignity of senior citizens

Lok Sabha MP Maddila Gurumoorthy has introduced a Private Member’s Bill proposing key amendments to the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. The Bill aims to redefine the legal obligations of children and relatives towards elderly citizens by placing emphasis on a “life of dignity” rather than mere survival, and enabling more flexible, needs-based maintenance provisions.

Citing the country’s rapidly ageing population, Gurumoorthy said the existing legislation, while a landmark at the time of its introduction, falls short of addressing the complex challenges facing India’s elderly today. “By 2050, over 20 per cent of India’s population will be above the age of 60,” he noted.

The Bill inserts a new clause defining “life of dignity” as a standard of living that ensures respect, autonomy and self-worth for senior citizens—covering not only basic needs like food, clothing and shelter, but also access to healthcare, emotional well-being and protection from exploitation and neglect.

The proposed amendment seeks to replace the term “normal life” with “life of dignity”, thereby raising the expectations for the quality of care and support that family members must provide.

Currently, the Act caps monthly maintenance at Rs 10,000. Gurumoorthy’s Bill calls for case-by-case assessments by Tribunals, taking into account the income and standard of living of both the senior citizen and their children. This is intended to ensure that financial support is fair, adequate and reflective of individual circumstances.

The Bill also proposes stricter penalties for those found guilty of abandoning senior citizens under their care. The revised clause provides for imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh, or both.

Gurumoorthy’s proposal highlights the growing vulnerabilities of elderly citizens in a changing India shaped by urban migration, nuclear family structures and rising economic pressures.

“Respect for elders is deeply rooted in our traditions. This Bill seeks to bridge the gap between those values and the contemporary realities that leave many elderly citizens isolated or financially dependent,” he said. Describing the Bill as a “step toward honouring the contributions of our senior citizens”, Gurumoorthy urged fellow lawmakers to support the amendments.