Can Senior Citizens Get Government Housing If Thrown Out By Family?

    Cyber and Technology Law
Law4u App Download

Senior citizens who are evicted or abandoned by their families face grave challenges including homelessness and insecurity. The Indian government and various state authorities have introduced welfare schemes and support systems to ensure shelter and protection for such vulnerable elderly individuals. These include government housing programs, old age homes, and legal provisions that enable senior citizens to claim maintenance and protection.

Government Housing and Shelter Provisions

Old Age Homes and Shelter Facilities

Various states run government-funded old age homes that provide free or subsidized shelter to destitute and abandoned senior citizens.

Government Housing Schemes

While direct government housing for abandoned elderly is limited, certain welfare schemes under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment or State Social Welfare Departments may offer assisted living or subsidized housing options.

Legal Rights under Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007

This Act obligates children or heirs to provide maintenance including shelter. Senior citizens can legally claim maintenance and seek protection if evicted unjustly.

Accessing Support

Senior citizens can approach District Legal Services Authorities or social welfare offices to avail legal aid, file complaints, and request rehabilitation or shelter.

Common Issues Faced by Abandoned Elderly

Lack of basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare.

Psychological trauma and social isolation.

Difficulty in accessing government schemes due to lack of awareness or documentation.

Legal Actions and Consumer Protections

Filing Maintenance Claims

Senior citizens can file claims under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act for maintenance and shelter.

Legal Aid

Free legal aid is available to assist abandoned elderly in securing their rights.

Social Welfare Support

Social welfare departments may provide financial assistance, rehabilitation, or place elders in government-run homes.

Awareness Programs

Initiatives to educate senior citizens about their entitlements and available welfare schemes.

Consumer Safety Tips

Keep identity and address proof documents handy.

Reach out to local social welfare offices or legal aid clinics promptly.

Engage with NGOs or senior citizen forums for support.

Maintain regular contact with community centers offering elder assistance.

Example

Scenario: An elderly man in a city is thrown out of his home by his son and has nowhere to go.

Steps to Take:

Contact Legal Services: Approach the nearest District Legal Services Authority for legal advice and assistance.

File a Maintenance Complaint: File a claim under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act for shelter and maintenance.

Seek Shelter: Apply for admission in a government old age home or social welfare shelter.

Access Welfare Schemes: Request social welfare officers to facilitate access to relevant schemes or financial aid.

Following these steps, the senior citizen can find legal protection and access shelter facilities provided by the government.

Answer By Law4u Team

Cyber and Technology Law Related Questions

Discover clear and detailed answers to common questions about Cyber and Technology Law. Learn about procedures and more in straightforward language.

Get all the information you want in one app! Download Now