One police station in each of the nine police districts in Chennai will be dedicated for interaction with people, particularly senior citizens, on designated days from October 1. Additional Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Shakeel Akhter announced this on Monday at an awareness programme on prevention of elder abuse organised along with HelpAge India. The police districts are T. Nagar, Flower Bazaar, Washermanpet, Anna Nagar, Kilpauk, Pulianthope, Adyar, Mylapore and Triplicane.
Senior citizens could discuss their complaints in the police stations. The department would also create awareness about the role of police. This would be a continuous process. However, the actual police stations and the frequency were yet to be decided he said. Police would also begin visiting residents' welfare associations across the city to strengthen rapport.
On October 2, staff from All Women Police Stations with the support of non-governmental organisations in the city would visit women from disadvantaged sections of society to sensitise them to police assistance and women empowerment.
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Highlighting the ‘Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007,' Mr.Akhter said four cases had been registered so far.
However, legal support must be sought as a last resort and elders must be respected.
He also gave away badges and certificates to 100 persons chosen as ‘Prevent Elder Abuse Champions.'
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Indrani Rajadurai, Special Adviser, HelpAge India, said the champions were from various walks of life, including students, IT professionals and representatives of senior citizens associations.
“We have asked them to prepare a strategic plan to impart value education among the people. They will spread awareness of the legal implications of abusing the elderly,” she said.