Rights Of Older Persons: Legal Protection And Challenges In India And Beyond
- IJLLR Journal
- Apr 30
- 1 min read
Nagma Khanam, LL.M., Gitarattan International Business School, GGSIPU
Dr Puja Paul Srivastava, Associate Professor, Centre for Legal Studies, Gitarattan International Business School, GGSIPU
ABSTRACT
This paper discusses the rights of older persons and the legal protection available to them both internationally and in India. As the number of elderly people is increasing worldwide, many face challenges such as poverty, isolation, lack of healthcare, and discrimination based on age. This study examines how “international human rights documents such as the UDHR (Universal Declaration of Human Rights)”, ICESCR and ICCPR (International Covenants), and the CRPD (“Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities”) can be used for supporting “the rights of older persons”.
In India, “the paper” examines how “the” DPSPs (Directive Principles “of State” Policy), Personal Laws, Section 144 of the BNSS(Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita), and the “Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007”, offer support to elderly citizens. The paper highlights that while laws do exist, there are still many gaps in practice. It argues for stronger protection, better enforcement, and development of a global convention specifically focused over the needs and rights of older persons.
Keywords: Elderly Rights, Human Rights, Ageing Population, Indian Constitution, Senior Citizens, Maintenance Act 2007, CRPD, Social Protection, Age Discrimination, Legal Support for Elderly
