Wokha, June 24 (MExN): Wokha District Legal Services Authority (WDLSA) in collaboration with the District Welfare Officer’s office organized one day legal awareness for senior citizens at Old Riphyim community hall on June 23.
Speaking on NALSA Scheme 2016, Meribemo Lotha, Panel Lawyer WDLSA said senior citizens are considered to be the protector of the society because of their vast experience and knowledge. However, they are subjected to social, physical, mental and economical abuse by their own family members, he lamented, according to a press release received here.
He mentioned that NALSA (Legal Services to Senior Citizens) Scheme 2016 has been implemented by Legal Services Authority to assist the senior citizens regarding their entitlements under various laws and government schemes.
Highlighting that a secular law applies across all religions and sections of the society under sec 125 to 128 Crpc for maintenance and welfare of the senior citizens, Meribemo further said the section enables the father or mother, who is unable to maintain himself or herself to claim maintenance from their sons or daughters if they refuse or neglect to maintain their parents.
Informing on old age pension scheme, Nribemo Shitiri, Senior HA and Zubemo Jami, Senior Welfare Inspector, Social Welfare Department apprised that as per the scheme every eligible senior citizen is entitled for the benefits, but due to constraint of funds from the government many beneficiaries could not avail the benefits.
They informed that June 30 is the last date for submission of bank account number by the beneficiaries as the pension will now be deposited directly to their account. The officers from Social Welfare therefore requested every beneficiary to submit their bank account on or before June 30.
Speaking on role and activities of WDLSA, Gracy Ezung, Retainer Lawyer WDLSA informed that the Legal Services Authority provides justice to the poor, illiterate, downtrodden and weaker section of the society. WDLSA provides such assistance free of cost, she added.
According to the release, many senior citizens raised issues with regard to opening of bank account and obtaining Aadhaar card as their physical conditions restrict them from travelling to towns. They requested the legal services to look into the matter and inform the department concerned accordingly for assistance.
Altogether, 95 people along with WDLSA and officials from Social Welfare department attended the programme, where Renbemo Tungoe, APP Wokha delivered the keynote address.
