Helpless no more: State Govt to deduct 15% salary of those neglecting elderly parents, here's how

Hyderabad (The Uttam Hindu): If you, too, are employed and shy away from caring for your elderly parents, then this news is a big alert for you. The Telangana government has passed a very strict and historic law to crack down on children who neglect the elderly. Under this new rule, if any employee abandons their parents, money will be deducted directly from their salary and sent to their parents' bank account. This law is being considered a major lifeline for the elderly amid rapidly changing lifestyles.

15% salary cut directly, applicable to everyone from private sector to politicians

The primary purpose of this stringent law is to hold accountable negligent employees who abandon their parents to their own devices. Under the new provision, those found guilty can face a 15 percent salary deduction, or a maximum of ₹10,000. Most importantly, this rule applies not only to government employees but also to those working in the private sector. Even MPs, MLAs, and local body representatives will not be able to escape the purview of this strict law.

Step-parents also within the ambit, CM Reddy gives a stern message

This law has been formulated not only from a technical perspective but also from a deeply social perspective. It expands the definition of family, granting rights not only to biological parents but also to stepparents. Introducing the bill, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy stated unequivocally that neglect of the elderly in society will not be tolerated at any cost. He clarified that protecting the rights of parents is an essential duty of every individual, and everyone must be responsible for this.

Justice will be delivered within 60 days, and the money will be credited directly to your bank account

This law greatly simplifies the process of justice for elderly people who are left alone due to the increasing trend of nuclear families. Aggrieved parents can file their complaints directly with the District Magistrate (DM). They simply need to submit an application detailing their status and income. The District Magistrate will issue a decision on the matter within 60 days. Following the hearing, an official order will be issued, and the agreed amount will be deducted directly from the employee's salary and transferred to the parents' bank account.

A commission will be formed under the chairmanship of a retired judge, and it will also take a strong action against hate crimes

Although the country already has the Maintenance Act of 2007, given its lengthy legal process, the Telangana government has included significant provisions in this new law, including fixed time limits and direct salary deductions. Furthermore, the law also proposes the creation of a Senior Citizens Commission, headed by a retired High Court judge. This commission will directly hear complaints and appeals from senior citizens. Furthermore, the Telangana government, while further strengthening social security, also introduced a stringent bill on hate speech and hate crimes on the same day, providing for punishment of up to 10 years and heavy fines for those found guilty.