Age limit of senior citizen reduced from 65 to 60 yrs

Mumbai: The state government has announced that the age limit of senior citizens will be reduced from 65 to 60 along the lines of the Union government’s policy. Social justice minister Dilip Kamble made this announcement during a special discussion on the issue initiated by Shiv Sena MLC Neelam Gorhe.

The minister also announced that the government would make private security agencies co-accused in a case if any of their employees misbehave with senior citizens.

Ms Gorhe, while raising the issue, in the Legislative Council, said, “Attacks on senior citizens are increasing in the state. This issue of security of old age persons, especially those living alone, is serious concern before the state.” She mentioned the murder of famous playwright Dilip Kolhatkar’s wife on February 4, 2018 in Pune.

Replying to Ms Gorhe, Mr Kamble said, “We are taking preventive measures in this regard. Police stations have been issued guidelines to keep the information of such senior citizens.”

Other members also raised concerns over security guards’ involvement in crimes against senior citizens. To this, Mr Kamble said, “If any security guard is found guilty in such attacks, we will make his security agency the co-accused in the case. Also, there will be a strict verification by police stations.”