Tuesday, 10 October 2023 PNS | DEHRADUN
Several factors such as loneliness and vulnerability have contributed to increased crimes against elderly individuals in the city. Recently, many cases of robbery and other crimes targeting the elderly have come to light especially in Dehradun. In light of this, various social workers have asserted that implementing an awareness programme focused on the safety of elderly people would help decrease the incidence of such crimes.
Commenting on the increased cases of robbery and crime against elderly people, State programme manager of HelpAge India, Krishna Avatar said, “Yes, in recent weeks there have been many reports of criminal incidents targeting elderly individuals. Unfortunately, elderly people in our city are often deemed as easy targets due to their perceived vulnerability. This, combined with their increasing susceptibility to crime, has led to a concerning rise in such cases. To address this issue, it is imperative for the police to organise a comprehensive training and awareness programme specifically for the elderly people. The programme should aim to equip them with crucial safety guidelines, highlighting what actions to take and what to avoid in order to safeguard themselves.”
Further, the founder of Nirogi Bharat Foundation, who has recently formed a ‘Time Bank’ to assist elderly people, Rohit Mamgain said that the instances of criminal offences committed against elderly people such as robbery, have witnessed a surge in Dehradun. In Doon, a majority of elderly people reside in solitude following their retirement, which tends to make them vulnerable due to loneliness and physical fragility. Hence, it is imperative for the police to enhance their vigilance and scrutiny in order to prevent any teams or groups intending to cause harm to senior citizens, he added.
The Dehradun senior superintendent of police, Ajai Singh told this correspondent,“ The police are focussing on direct interaction with senior citizens, especially those who live alone, to ensure their convenience and safety. The police officials concerned have also been directed to stay in touch with elderly people and check on them from time to time.”
He further said that the police station in-charges have also been directed to act against offences committed against senior citizens within the stipulated time.
