Keralam Senior Citizens (Care and Protection of Rights) Bill, 2026 introduced in the Assembly
13 October 2026
On 13 October 2026 Chief Minister V D Satheesan introduced the Keralam Senior Citizens (Care and Protection of Rights) Bill, 2026 in the Assembly.
PTI reported Keralam as the first state to introduce a comprehensive Bill to protect senior citizens from abuse and exploitation.
The Bill proposes imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 50,000 for physical or mental abuse or cruelty against a senior citizen by a family member, relative, legal heir, the authority in charge of a care centre, its staff or a caregiver.
Elderly care homes, day-care centres, respite care centres, hospices, home-care service agencies and caregiver training centres would have to register; registration certificates would be valid for four years and subject to renewal.
It proposes a State Senior Citizens Protection Unit and district-level protection forums and units.
Satheesan said the proposed department would also build a 'silver economy' using the experience of people aged 60 and above.
In plain words
Silver economy Economic activity built on the needs and experience of older people — Satheesan said the proposed department would focus on it for people aged 60 and above.