Kerala introduces bill to protect senior citizens from abuse

The Kerala state government has introduced ‘The Keralam Senior Citizens (Care and Protection of Rights) Bill, 2026’ in the state Assembly to safeguard the elderly from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Introduced by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan, the legislation proposes criminal penalties for cruelty against senior citizens. Key provisions include up to three years of imprisonment and fines of up to Rs 50,000 for physical or mental abuse committed by family members, legal heirs, or staff at care centers.

The Bill also seeks to establish a regulatory framework for elderly care institutions. This includes mandatory registration, monitoring, and oversight to ensure transparency, accountability, and higher service standards. The initiative aims to address issues such as financial exploitation and the abandonment of elderly individuals by relatives.