“Muntazir” a short film produced by J&K State Social Welfare Board (JKSSWB) on Elders’ abuse was screened here today at Teachers, Auditorium. The five minute duration thought provoking short film throws light on the plight of the senior citizens who are forced out of their homes after giving their whole life in raising their children and securing their future. The short film conveys a message to the young generation to show compassion and take utmost care of their parents in the old age. Earlier, the film was released by Union Minister of state for Development of North Eastern Region, Dr Jitendra Singh in the presence of Speaker of J&K Legislative Assembly Kavinder Gupta and chairperson J&K state social welfare board Dr. Prof. Nirmal Gupta and other guests.The chief guest, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the government has taken several steps for the welfare of the elderly persons which include the National Programme for healthcare of the elderly. He said the scheme provides for specialized services for their treatment. Stressing on showing compassion to the elderly persons, he said just a simple act of talking to them face to face about and asking them how they feel can relieve their depression and keep it away. He spoke on several aspects of the issue and asserted that the elders also need to change mentality towards youth to combat the problem. He appreciated the steps taken by the board and the committed support towards the cause.
Speaking on the occasion speaker of J&K Legislative Assembly Kavinder Gupta, averred that the warning signs of some kind of elder abuse are frequent in the society. “This is quite a burning issue. The elderly persons are abused in their own homes, in relative’s homes and even by the faculties responsible for their care” he regretted. He called for acting swiftly if any one suspect that an elderly person is at risk of neglect or being preyed upon financially. “It is important to speak up and try to solve the problem by providing counselling to the victim and his heirs.” Earlier, Chairperson J&K state social welfare board, while welcoming the guests, stated that elderly people often face neglect and are abandoned. She opined that the age old Indian tradition of a joint family should continue for the betterment of the society. “The elders should not only be respected, but given respect and regard by their family members, as well. If you suspect abuse, you need to report it. You can protect seniors by bringing up the issue of abuse with a trusted authority member” she appealed to the people.Giving details of Board’s functioning, she asserted it is committed towards the betterment of senior citizens, physically impaired and weaker sections.Ravikant the narrator in the film – Muntazir, very ably anchored the release programme.In his address, Secretary J&K state social welfare board Shahid Mahmood, extended gratitude to the contributors of the film – Director Radio Kashmir, Jammu, Pradeep Pandita, Ravikant and others. The programme was attended by representatives of the senior Citizens Organizations, NGOs and the prominent citizens present.