Consider the following provisions under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007:

1. The Act places an obligation on children to provide financial and medical support to their elderly parents.

2. The State Government may establish and maintain old-age homes at accessible locations, with at least one in each district.

3. Transfer of property by a senior citizen can be declared void if the transferee fails to provide basic amenities and care.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

In News

• The Karnataka government has directed officials to cancel property transfers where children abandon their elderly parents after inheriting property. The move comes after over 150 senior citizens were found deserted in hospitals, highlighting the importance of legal protection for the elderly under this Act. 

Key Points

• The Act mandates that children or relatives must provide financial, medical, and daily care to senior citizens if they are unable to support themselves. 
  • If children fail to do so, senior citizens can seek legal recourse under the Act.
  • Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
• The Act allows State Governments to set up old-age homes, ensuring at least one home per district to accommodate indigent senior citizens.
  • The homes must provide medical care, food, and recreational facilities.
  • Hence, Statement 2 is correct.
• Section 23 of the Act states that any property transferred by a senior citizen on the condition of care can be declared void if the transferee neglects or abandons them.
  • This provision ensures that elderly individuals are not exploited by their heirs.
  • Hence, Statement 3 is correct.

Additional Information

• The Act allows senior citizens to seek maintenance through a Tribunal, which can order children to pay a monthly allowance. 
• Failure to comply can lead to legal action, fines, and even imprisonment.
• Medical facilities for senior citizens must be improved in government hospitals, with dedicated queues and geriatric care units.