The recent distressing incident in Kulshekar has sparked widespread concern about the safety of senior citizens in Mangaluru. An 87-year-old individual was reportedly subjected to violence by his daughter-in-law, leaving him severely injured, while his son resides abroad.
This unfortunate incident underscores a larger issue of elder abuse within families, prompting calls for preventive measures from relevant authorities. Instances of senior citizens facing harassment and mistreatment within their own homes have become alarmingly common, necessitating urgent action.
In response to similar concerns raised by senior citizens in Vamanjoor during a phone-in program in 2023, then-police commissioner Kuldeep Jain initiated a drive in August of that year. Four teams were formed in each police station to visit households with senior citizens and address their safety concerns.
Many senior citizens find themselves living in isolation, as their children often choose to stay away, leaving them vulnerable to potential risks such as robberies. It is imperative to implement measures such as counselling sessions, regular visits from health officials, and routine checks on their well-being.
Tragic incidents like the recent case of a couple of senior citizens dying in a fire while alone at home highlight the urgent need for better support and awareness.
Shashidhar, Secretary of the Mangaluru Senior Citizens Association, emphasized the importance of police initiatives to identify and regularly visit households with senior citizens. However, he lamented instances where seniors are neglected and urged for sustained efforts to improve their living conditions.
Corrine Rasquinha, Founder of White Doves, called for the establishment of a registration system or dedicated cell for individuals above 70 to address their issues effectively. She highlighted cases of elderly individuals facing mistreatment within their families and stressed the need for comprehensive support mechanisms.
The government’s consideration of establishing day-care centers for the elderly, especially when their children are at work, could significantly alleviate the burden on families and reduce the likelihood of abuse.
It is crucial to raise awareness about senior citizen safety, and authorities must maintain a registration system to address their problems promptly and effectively.
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