KATHMANDU: A proposal of urgent public importance has been tabled in the National Assembly (NA), the upper house of the Federal Parliament, calling for special measures to ensure a safe, dignified, and quality life for senior citizens.
In today’s NA meeting, the proposal—put forward by Sumitra BC—was supported by members Urmila Aryal, Kamala Panta, Bhagawati Neupane, Maya Prasad Sharma, Madan Kumari Shah (Garima), Padam Bahadur Pariyar, and Puja Chaudhary.
Presenting the proposal, NA member BC highlighted the need for employment opportunities for individuals who fall under the legal definition of senior citizens but do not receive social security allowances.
She emphasized the importance of cultivating a culture that respects and protects the elderly. The proposal, registered on June 14, was formally presented in today’s session.
The members supporting the proposal further recommended the establishment of a dedicated helpline for senior citizens and called on the state to take responsibility for their protection, noting the rising trend of parental neglect.
Directive to the government
NA Vice-Chairperson Bimala Ghimire directed the government to prioritize the implementation of the proposal and the commitments made by Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens, Nawal Kishor Sah Sudi, during the Assembly session. She also instructed the relevant thematic committee to follow up on the matters mentioned in the proposal.
Minister Sudi, expressing concern over the challenges faced by senior citizens, underscored the importance of effectively implementing the proposal, which includes several crucial issues.
He stressed that senior citizen welfare is a multi-ministerial responsibility, involving not only the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens but also the Ministries of Health, Law, and Finance.
He further announced that the Ministry will introduce a bill addressing senior citizen issues within three months. He emphasized the need for policies that consider the financial hardships faced by senior citizens who are genuinely struggling.
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