What to do if a senior citizen is being threatened?

The following are the actions that can be taken if a senior citizen is being threatened, whether physically or verbally:

1. File a regular complaint at the local police station or call 100. In case of injury, collect evidence from the doctor’s report at any government hospital and/or any photographic evidence. One can also approach the SSP/DCP etc directly. One can file a complaint under Section 506 of Indian Penal Code: Criminal intimidation.

2. Depending on the severity, file a non cognizable (NC) complaint about criminal intimidation at the local police station

3. Call the elders helpline of the local police (1090, 1091, 1291) and make a complaint

4. Call the Dada Dadi/ Dignity / HelpAge India helpline in your city and ask for help

5. File a written petition at the local senior citizen tribunal (usually the additional district magistrate or SDM) giving details asking for protection under the senior citizens act

6. Send a legal notice to the person giving the threats with the help of a lawyer, asking them to cease and desist, without which legal actions will be initiated

7. Write to or meet the local MP, MLA asking for protection and giving details

8. File an application with the local court asking for a restraining order against the person who is threatening.