Court Suggests Central Government to Reconsider Increasing Monthly Allowance for Senior Citizens to ₹10,000

In a significant observation, the Karnataka High Court has recommended that the Central Government review and amend Section 9 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, which governs the financial support provided to elderly parents.

 

The court emphasized that the current provisions should be revisited in light of the present economic conditions, inflation, and the rising cost of living. It recommended that ₹10,000 per month should be considered as a minimum maintenance allowance to ensure elderly parents live with dignity and financial security.

 

Justice M. Nagaprasanna, hearing a related petition, stated that the government must not restrict its action to mere promises of future amendments but should take concrete legislative steps to amend the Act. The judge further noted that welfare measures must evolve with changing times and financial realities to adequately protect the rights and dignity of the elderly.

 

The court also urged the Centre to conduct a comprehensive review and table necessary amendments in Parliament, ensuring that senior citizens are not left financially vulnerable. It stressed that the maintenance provisions should reflect contemporary socio-economic realities rather than outdated financial benchmarks.

 

This recommendation, if implemented, could significantly improve the quality of life for millions of elderly citizens in India who depend on such allowances for their basic needs.