Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of all human rights by older persons at the 54th Session of Human Rights Council (11 September - 13 October 2023) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, Geneva, 15 September 2023
Mr. President,
We thank the Independent Expert for her report and take due note of its recommendations.
We share her concerns about the challenges faced by older persons, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and the lacunae in this regard in the national, regional and international legal framework.
The Government of India accords utmost priority to the safety of elderly citizens. It is implementing a number of programmes to ensure senior citizens live a healthy, happy, empowered, dignified and self-reliant life along with strong social and inter-generational bonding. These include welfare schemes for shelter, food, healthcare, financial security, social security, awareness, recreation etc.
Under the Constitution, the responsibilities to maintain law and order, protection of life and property of the citizen including investigation and prosecution of crime rest with the States. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act prescribes that State Governments develop a Comprehensive Action Plan for protection of life and property of senior citizens.
The Government of India has issued two detailed advisories to all State Governments to take immediate measures to ensure safety and security and for elimination of all forms of neglect, abuse and violence against older persons through initiatives such as identification of senior citizens; sensitization of police personnel; setting up of toll-free senior citizen helpline and security cell etc.
I thank you.
