Senior citizens panel reviews 33 complaints, demands voluntary committees

The Kerala State Senior Citizens Commission reviewed 33 complaints during a grievance redressal meeting held at the Collectorate Conference Hall on Monday, 9 November 2026. According to a report by The Hindu, the meeting was led by the Commission's Chairman K. Somaprasad and member Amaravila Ramakrishnan.

Addressing the media, Chairman K. Somaprasad stated that most of the complaints pertained to family disputes, primarily involving children failing to provide proper care and maintenance for their elderly parents. Apart from this, other significant issues were raised during the meeting, including delays in receiving pensions, non-refund of amounts deposited in cooperative banks, contractors failing to complete work after receiving payment, and tenants refusing to vacate houses even after the expiry of lease agreements.

The Commission emphasised the urgent need to form voluntary committees within the jurisdiction of all police stations under the 'Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007'. The Commission noted that while Maintenance Tribunals are currently operational under the chairmanship of Revenue Divisional Officers (RDOs), there is significant delay in the disposal of pending applications.

Mr. Somaprasad stated that the Commission recently convened a meeting of Revenue Divisional Officers to resolve this issue. Subsequently, the Commission has recommended to the State Government that dedicated staff be appointed in Revenue Divisional Offices to ensure the speedy disposal of cases before the tribunal.

The Chairman assured that senior citizens can contact the Commission with any grievance. He further mentioned that the panel also registers suo motu cases based on media reports and other information brought to its attention. He expressed hope that the newly formed 'Department for Senior Citizens' would help in more efficient intervention in matters concerning senior citizens.