The Allahabad High Court strongly condemned the mistreatment of elderly parents, stating that cruelty, neglect, or abandonment violates their fundamental right to life with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution. A bench of Justices Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Prashant Kumar emphasized that caring for ageing parents is both a moral and legal duty. The case involved a 75-year-old man seeking over ₹21 lakh as compensation for his acquired land and superstructure. Though the compensation was assessed and a payment notice issued, his sons blocked the release, claiming co-ownership. The petitioner alleged that his sons abused him physically and mentally after the compensation was announced. Despite this, he expressed willingness to share part of the amount. The Court, shocked by the sons’ behaviour, called it a societal and moral failure.
It ruled that a hostile home violates Article 21 and asserted the judiciary must act when familial care collapses. The bench ordered immediate release of the compensation to the father. They also warned that any future interference by the sons would invite strict action. The Court disposed of the petition, standing firmly for elder dignity and justice.
