In a significant order aimed at strengthening the welfare of senior citizens, the Rajasthan High Court has directed a detailed review of all old age homes operating in the State. The Court asked the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority (RSLSA) to submit a comprehensive report on the facilities and functioning of 31 such homes by February 15, 2026.
The direction came while hearing a public interest writ petition filed by Lok Utthan Sansthan. The Bench of Justice Dr. Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Sangeeta Sharma stressed that care for the elderly is not just a social value but a constitutional obligation.
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Background of the Case
The petition highlighted concerns regarding the implementation of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. This law requires the State to establish and maintain old age homes in every district for senior citizens who lack support.
The Court referred to constitutional principles, especially Article 21, which guarantees the right to live with dignity. It also discussed earlier Supreme Court rulings that emphasized meaningful implementation of the 2007 Act.
The Bench noted that India is witnessing a steady rise in its elderly population. With increasing life expectancy and changing family structures, institutional support systems have become more important than ever.
Court’s Observations
At the outset, the Court reflected on India’s long-standing cultural respect for elders. It referred to the traditional value of “Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava,” observing that senior citizens have always been regarded as sources of wisdom and guidance.
However, the judges acknowledged that social realities have changed. Urbanisation and nuclear families have reduced traditional support systems. In this backdrop, the Court said institutional care must function effectively and not merely exist on paper.
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“The right to life under Article 21 includes the right to live with dignity,” the Bench observed, adding that welfare laws for senior citizens must receive a liberal and purposeful interpretation.
The Court also referred to recent Supreme Court decisions which held that authorities implementing the 2007 Act must ensure real and practical protection for the elderly. A narrow or technical approach, it said, would defeat the purpose of the legislation.
Status of Old Age Homes in Rajasthan
During the hearing, the State informed the Court that 31 old age homes are currently functioning across Rajasthan. A district-wise list of these homes was placed on record.
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While noting this development, the Bench made it clear that the mere existence of such homes is not enough. What matters is whether they are adequately equipped with medical facilities, basic amenities, and proper welfare support.
The Court observed that periodic assessment of these homes is essential to ensure that senior citizens residing there are living in safe and dignified conditions.
Directions Issued by the Court
In its operative directions, the Court instructed the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority to conduct an inspection through the respective District Legal Services Authorities and submit a detailed report by February 15, 2026.
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The report must specifically state:
- Whether the building housing each old age home has been constructed by the State Government.
- Whether the occupants are elderly persons or senior citizens.
- Whether adequate medical facilities are available.
- Whether any financial aid or grant is being provided by the Government.
- Any other issue relating to welfare or infrastructure.
The matter has been listed for further hearing after eight weeks.
With these directions, the Court sought to ensure that the legislative intent behind the 2007 Act translates into meaningful protection and dignity for senior citizens across Rajasthan.
Case Title: Lok Utthan Sansthan v. State of Rajasthan
Case No.: D.B. Civil Writ Petition No. 18092/2023
Decision Date: 29/01/2026
