The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Attorney General for India to communicate with the Advocate Generals and Standing Counsels of all States and Union Territories and seek updated information on old-age homes and the facilities being provided to senior citizens.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana passed the direction while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the rights, welfare and dignity of elderly persons under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The PIL, filed by Dr Ashwani Kumar, raises concerns relating to pensions, shelter, geriatric care and medical facilities for senior citizens, besides the implementation of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act.
Appearing in person, Kumar told the Bench that the Court had issued a continuing mandamus requiring the Union government to collect information on three aspects, the availability of old-age homes in every district, the pension being provided to elderly persons and the availability of medical and geriatric care.
Kumar expressed concern over the matter not being effectively heard for several years and pointed out that an affidavit filed by the Union government in August 2023 contained information from only 15 States and four Union Territories and remained incomplete.
The petitioner opposed a suggestion that the matter be remitted to the respective High Courts, submitting that the Supreme Court must ensure compliance with its own orders. He argued that issues requiring an all-India approach could not be left to individual High Courts.
CJI Surya Kant observed that the Supreme Court could lay down broad principles for protecting the rights of senior citizens and subsequently entrust the High Courts with ensuring their implementation at the ground level.
The Bench accordingly requested the Attorney General to write to the Advocate Generals and Standing Counsels of all States and Union Territories seeking the latest status of old-age homes and the facilities available there.
The States and Union Territories have been directed to furnish the requisite information within three weeks of receiving the communication.
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