By SUNIL SONKER
Mussoorie, 15 Jun: On the occasion of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, today, the Mussoorie Senior Citizens’ Committee organised a programme at the Library Gurudwara auditorium in Mussoorie, focusing on the dignity, safety, and rights of the elderly. Students from Mussoorie Girls’ Inter College and Saraswati Shishu Vidya Mandir participated in the event. Speakers emphasised that the elderly are an invaluable asset not only to their families but to society as a whole; their experience, knowledge, and sacrifices have provided a strong foundation for the current generation.
The speakers noted that the objective of this day, observed annually on 15 June, is to raise awareness about the physical, mental, emotional, and financial abuse faced by the elderly. Fostering a sense of respect and sensitivity towards them within society is also a primary goal of the observance. Expressing concern, the speakers highlighted that in an era of modern lifestyles and the rise of nuclear families, many elderly people face neglect, loneliness, and disrespect. In many instances, they also endure issues such as financial exploitation, mental harassment, and social isolation. This situation raises serious questions about the moral values of society. They pointed out that elder abuse is not limited to physical violence alone; disregarding an elderly person’s feelings, ignoring their needs, excluding them from decision-making processes, or exploiting them by keeping them financially dependent also falls under the category of abuse. Those present at the event pledged to prioritise the respect, safety, and care of the elderly within their families and society. The speakers appealed to the youth to learn from the experiences of the elderly and to keep them as integral members of the family. It was also stated that a society is defined by how it treats its elderly; if the elderly are safe, respected, and happy, society itself becomes more sensitive and robust.
At the conclusion of the programme, everyone pledged to embody a spirit of respect and support for the elderly in their lives and to raise awareness against elder abuse. Several individuals were present on the occasion, including Narendra Sahni, Harshad Vohra, GS Manchanda, GK Gupta, and Ramesh Goyal.
