Mangalore
An elderly woman, along with her daughters, staged a sit-in protest at the office of the Assistant Commissioner (AC), demanding resolution to her ongoing issue with her son and daughter-in-law, who have allegedly neglected her care.
Sheshamma, a resident of Kalladka Peraje in Mandekolu village, had previously lodged a complaint with the Sullia Tahsildar regarding her son’s failure to care for her. Following her complaint, the Tahsildar held discussions with her son and arranged for her to be taken back to her home in Mandekolu. Despite being looked after by her three married daughters in turns, there was no improvement in the behaviour of Sheshamma’s son and daughter-in-law.
Determined to seek a permanent solution to her plight, Sheshamma, accompanied by her daughters, arrived at the AC’s office and began her sit-in protest. AC Jubin Mohapatra, who was in Mangaluru, arrived later in the evening to address the issue. He listened to the grievances of Sheshamma and her daughters, as well as the account from her son. He also gathered information from the Tahsildar and the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) and assured them of a legal resolution.
During the discussion, AC Mohapatra reminded Sheshamma’s children of their duty to care for their mother and instructed the Tahsildar and CDPO to visit Sheshamma’s home and prepare a report on the situation.
Sheshamma remained in the AC office premises until late at night. Eventually, the officials were able to pacify her and her daughters, assuring them that a solution would be provided within a week. Sheshamma and her daughters then left for their home.
This incident highlights the growing concern over the neglect of elderly parents and the need for robust mechanisms to ensure their welfare.
