Government Acts Swiftly on Umang Foundation’s Appeal
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Shifts Elderly Man to Old Age Home
Shimla, March 4, 2025 – Acting on Umang Foundation’s appeal, the Himachal Pradesh government has rescued an ailing, destitute elderly man, Balwant, from Sunni Bazaar and admitted him to the state-run old age home in Basantpur within 24 hours. The Director of SC, OBC, and Minority Welfare, Kiran Bhadana, ordered his immediate relocation for better care and medical treatment.
Prof. Ajay Srivastava, President of Umang Foundation, had written to the director on Monday and personally requested urgent intervention. Responding sensitively, she assured immediate action, leading to the Tehsil Welfare Officer, Rakesh Shandil, swiftly shifting the elderly man on Tuesday.
Umang Foundation expressed gratitude to all those who had been assisting Balwant for months, including local shopkeepers and teachers in Sunni. The organization also thanked the Welfare Department officials for their prompt action.
High Court’s 2015 Order on Elderly Care
In 2012, Prof. Srivastava had filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Himachal Pradesh High Court against inhumane conditions and human rights violations at the Basantpur old age home. On June 4, 2015, the court directed the state to construct a new facility within a year, ensuring modern amenities and dignified living conditions for senior citizens. By May 2016, a new building was completed, now housing 50 elderly residents.
Prof. Srivastava emphasized the importance of community involvement in helping homeless elderly, women, children, and individuals with mental illnesses, urging society to coordinate with the administration for rehabilitation efforts.
