Karnataka High Court directed the State government to issue circulars to ensure timely assistance and medical relief for the elderly citizens during this prevailing pandemic situation.
The High Court has also directed the government to ensure that all eligible old age pensioners get their pension regularly.
“Circulars have to be issued to all district magistrates to perform their duty under Section 20 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 and Karnataka Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Rules, 2009, by prescribing a comprehensive action plan for senior citizens,” said Chief Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka.
Section 20 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizen Act earmarks medical facilities, including treatment and beds, for senior citizens in government hospitals and private hospitals receiving government funding.
In the context of the sudden surge in Covid-19 cases, the State government will have to make every possible endeavour to comply with Section 20 of the said Act, especially at Covid-Care Centres and Covid hospitals. The State will issue an advisory to all concerned to keep in mind the mandate of Section 20 while running Covid-centres and hospitals.
The High Court has slated the two separate PILs seeking enhanced pension and Mediclaim policies for the senior citizens on June 18.