family
Senior Citizen Abuse / Maintenance
An elderly person is being abused, neglected, or abandoned by their children or family members, or is not receiving maintenance for basic needs.
- 01If in immediate danger, call 112 — Police Emergency
- 02Call Elder Helpline — 14567
- 03File a complaint at the nearest police station for abuse
- 04Apply to the Maintenance Tribunal (through the Sub-Divisional Magistrate)
- 05Approach District Legal Services Authority for free legal aid
- 06If property was transferred — apply for cancellation under the Act
- 07Contact local NGOs working for senior citizens' welfare
- 08File complaint on National Commission for Senior Citizens portal
- Medical records showing injuries or neglect
- Bank statements showing financial exploitation
- Property transfer documents (if property was given to children)
- Photographs or videos of living conditions
- Witness statements from neighbours or domestic help
- Communication records showing neglect or abuse
- Income and expense details of the senior citizen
- Application to Maintenance Tribunal
- Age proof (Aadhaar, voter ID)
- Income details / pension details
- Property documents (if relevant)
- Medical reports (if abused or neglected)
- Police complaint copy (if abuse is involved)
- Maintenance Tribunal — Through Sub-Divisional Magistrate
- Police Station — FIR for abuse / abandonment
- Elder Helpline — 14567
- District Legal Services Authority — Free legal aid
- National Commission for Senior Citizens
- District Social Welfare Officer
- Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act — Section 4 (Obligation to maintain parents)
- Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act — Section 23 (Punishment for abandonment)
- BNS Section 115 — Voluntarily causing hurt
- BNSS Section 144 — Order for maintenance of parents
- Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act — Section 20 (Maintenance of aged parents)
The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, makes it a legal obligation for children and legal heirs to maintain senior citizens. If they fail, the senior citizen can approach the Maintenance Tribunal. The Act also allows cancellation of property transfers made to children if they fail to provide maintenance. Elder abuse — physical, emotional, or financial — is a criminal offence. The 2023 amendment broadens protection.
When to see a lawyer
Free legal aid is available for senior citizens through DLSA. A lawyer can help file maintenance applications, cancel property transfers, and pursue criminal cases against abusive family members.