Strict action against those who abandon elderly parents: CP Sajjanar

Hyderabad City Police Commissioner Sajjanar has voiced serious concern over the growing neglect and ill-treatment of senior citizens, calling the trend deeply disturbing. He said that a large number of elderly people regularly approach him with painful accounts of being abandoned or harassed by their own children.

Referring to his long service across various departments, including the TGSRTC and Cyberabad Police, the Commissioner said one troubling reality remains unchanged elderly parents, including those who are ill and dependent, are often left to fend for themselves. He made it clear that such conduct is unacceptable and goes against basic human values.

Commissioner Sajjanar stressed that caring for parents in their old age is not just a moral responsibility but a fundamental duty of every child. How parents are treated today, he said, will shape the values of the next generation. “What we sow today, we will reap tomorrow,” he remarked, urging families to treat their elderly members with dignity, respect and compassion.

He also warned that neglect, mental harassment or physical abuse of senior citizens will not be tolerated. Those who abandon their parents or leave them in helpless situations will face strict legal action, he said, adding that the police will act firmly against offenders.

Highlighting the legal backing available to senior citizens, the Commissioner pointed out that Indian law clearly protects the rights of elderly parents. Under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 , senior citizens who are unable to support themselves have a legal right to seek maintenance from their children or close relatives. The law also empowers parents to seek cancellation of property transfers or gift deeds if children fail to provide the care and support promised at the time of transfer.

In a series of recent rulings, including judgments delivered in 2025, the Supreme Court has further strengthened these protections. The apex court has affirmed the authority of Maintenance Tribunals to order the eviction of adult children from parental property in cases of neglect or ill-treatment, making it clear that property rights cannot override a parent’s right to live with dignity and security.

Commissioner Sajjanar said these judicial pronouncements send a strong message that abandoning elderly parents carries serious legal consequences. He assured senior citizens who feel helpless or unheard that the police department stands firmly with them. The dignity, safety and well-being of elderly people, he said, are a top priority for the police.

He urged victims not to suffer in silence and encouraged senior citizens facing neglect or abuse to approach the police directly without fear for support and protection.