Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 is a legislation, initiated by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India[1] to provide more effective provision for maintenance and welfare of parents and senior citizens.
It makes it a legal obligation for children and heirs to provide maintenance to senior citizens and parents, by monthly allowance.
It also provides simple, speedy and inexpensive mechanism for the protection of life and property of the older persons.
[3] This act provides an in-expensive and speedy procedure to claim monthly maintenance for parents and senior citizens.
However, the Tribunal can extend time for a maximum period of 30 days in exceptional circumstances after recording reason.
[15] If such children/relative who are directed to pay maintenance fail to comply with the order of tribunal without sufficient cause, the Tribunal may issue warrant for levying the due amount from them in the manner levying fines and can also sentence the erring respondent to imprisonment that may extend to one month or until payment made whichever is earlier.
However the Hon'ble Kerala High Court held that legal practitioners also could represent cases under this Act.
[22] This Act also provides that state governments may establish old age homes at least one in one district to accommodate indigent senior citizens.
Most states and UTs have notified the commencement date, except Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.