Bill to protect senior citizens’ rights passed by Keralam Assembly

The Keralam Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed the Keralam Senior Citizens’ (Care and Protection of Rights) Bill, 2026, proposing a comprehensive framework for senior citizens aged 60 and above. The Bill mandates registration of care centres, introduces caregiver training and certification, and extends regulatory oversight to home-care agencies and digital platforms. It also requires medical practitioners and care centres to report suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation, with specified cases reportable within 48 hours. Abuse, abandonment and illegal possession of residents’ property may attract imprisonment and fines.