Maharashtra Sets 90-Day Deadline for Senior Citizen Maintenance Cases
The Maharashtra government has made it mandatory to resolve cases concerning the maintenance and welfare of senior citizens within 90 days. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced the decision on Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's directions, issuing detailed guidelines to all divisional commissioners and district collectors for implementation.
The move addresses rising complaints of elderly people facing neglect and financial deprivation from family members. Under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, sub-divisional officers head tribunals to handle such complaints. The Maharashtra Federation of Senior Citizens Organisations had reported that cases were delayed due to heavy workload of officials handling election duties and land revenue matters.
New guidelines require applications to be registered on the same day with immediate acknowledgement. Final orders must be passed within 90 days, and unnecessary adjournments are prohibited. Priority will be given to counselling and reconciliation at initial hearing stages.
