Question : IMPLEMENTATION OF MWPSC ACT

(a) whether the Government has any mechanism in place to review the implementation of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government has recently issued any advisories to all State Governments/UTs to ensure the safety and security of older persons;

(c) the number of cases regarding neglect of senior citizens by their children reported, so far and the action taken thereon, State-wise;

(d) whether the Government had set up a National Commission for Senior Citizens to look into their grievances; and

(e) if so, the details thereof along with the funds released for Senior Citizens under the 12th Five Year Plan?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SHRI VIJAY SAMPLA)

(a): The Ministry has been making efforts by persuading the States/ UTs from time to time to effectively implement the Act in letter and spirit so that the senior citizens are benefitted in their respective States/ UTs. The Ministry has requested the State Governments/UT Admini- strations to submit a yearly progress report regarding implementation of the Act within the month of May every year. Apart from pursuing the matter through written communications, the issue has been raised at various forums including, inter-alia, during the Regional Conferences of Secretaries of Social Welfare Departments, during visit of the nodal officers to their respective States etc.

(b): The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued two detailed advisories dated 27.3.2008 and 30.08.2013, to all the State Governments/UTs advising them to take immediate measures to ensure safety and security and for elimination of all forms of neglect, abuse and violence against old persons through initiatives such as identification of senior citizens; sensitization of police personnel regarding safety, security of older persons; regular visit of the beat staff; setting up of toll free senior citizen helpline; setting up of senior citizen security cell; verification of domestic helps, drivers, etc.

(c): This data is not centrally maintained by this Ministry.

(d): No National Commission for looking to the grievances of Senior Citizens has been set up.

(e): Does not arise