Comparative Study of Senior Citizen Rights: References from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka

Abstract

Population ageing has emerged as a significant socio-legal challenge across South Asia, demanding robust legal frameworks and inclusive social policies to safeguard the rights and well-being of older persons. This paper presents a comparative study of senior citizen rights in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka by examining constitutional provisions, statutory protections, social security mechanisms, healthcare policies, and institutional support systems. Employing a comparative socio-legal methodology based on legislative analysis, policy documents, international conventions, and secondary literature, the study explores how each country addresses issues of income security, healthcare access, elder abuse, social inclusion, and family responsibility. While India has enacted the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, Nepal has incorporated elderly welfare within its constitutional framework and social protection policies. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have similarly introduced legal and welfare measures, although implementation remains constrained by limited institutional capacity, demographic transitions, and resource disparities. The study identifies common regional challenges, including inadequate pension coverage, rising healthcare costs, changing family structures, and insufficient protection against elder abuse and neglect. It argues that despite varying legal approaches, all four countries face a gap between legislative intent and effective implementation. The paper advocates a rights-based and regional framework for elderly welfare grounded in international human rights standards, stronger institutional accountability, community-based care, and enhanced cross-border policy cooperation. Such an approach would contribute to promoting dignity, social justice, and healthy ageing for senior citizens across South Asia.