Telangana Passes Law to Deduct Salary of Employees Neglecting Parents

Hyderabad, March 2026 : In a landmark move aimed at strengthening family responsibility and protecting the elderly, the Telangana Legislative Assembly on Sunday unanimously passed a Bill mandating salary deductions for employees found neglecting their parents.

The legislation, titled the Telangana Employees Accountability and Monitoring of Parental Support Bill, 2026, provides for a deduction of up to 15 per cent or Rs 10,000 — whichever is lower — from the gross salary of such individuals. The deducted amount will be directly transferred to the parents, ensuring financial support for their well-being.

Significantly, the scope of the law extends beyond government employees to include private sector workers as well as elected public representatives such as MLAs, MLCs, corporators, councillors, and sarpanches. The Bill was passed with a voice vote after receiving support from members across party lines, reflecting a broad consensus on the issue.

The motion for the Bill was moved by SC, ST Welfare and Senior Citizens Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar, who emphasised the growing need for enforceable mechanisms to address the rising instances of neglect of elderly parents.

According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons, the government highlighted that cases of abandonment and neglect of senior citizens have been increasing in recent years, necessitating stronger legal provisions. The Bill draws on the principles of Constitution of India, particularly Article 21, which guarantees the right to life with dignity, underscoring that elderly parents deserve respect, care, and security.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy described the legislation as a crucial step towards safeguarding the rights of senior citizens. Addressing the House, he said the Bill was introduced after extensive deliberation and with a deep sense of moral responsibility.

“This law is meant to instil a sense of accountability and, where necessary, fear among those who fail to respect and care for their parents,” he said, expressing concern over the erosion of traditional family values in modern society.

The Chief Minister noted that increasing materialism and the pursuit of wealth have led many to overlook emotional bonds, including the sacred relationship between parents and children. “It reflects poorly on society when parents are abandoned and left to suffer in distress,” he remarked.

Highlighting real-life instances, Revanth Reddy recounted the case of a public representative who allegedly failed to care for his father during a serious illness, pointing to the urgent need for corrective measures. He also called upon society to socially boycott individuals who neglect their parents.

The Chief Minister referred to the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 enacted by the Centre, noting that despite its provisions, instances of neglect have persisted. He acknowledged that while legislation alone may not fully resolve the issue, it can serve as a strong deterrent and provide confidence to elderly citizens.

“We want to ensure that no parent is left destitute or faces hardship in their final years,” he said, stressing the government’s commitment to social welfare.

Revanth Reddy also spoke about the decline of the traditional joint family system. He pointed out that smaller family sizes and changing social dynamics have reduced the support systems available to elderly parents. While daughters often wish to care for their parents, societal and familial obligations may limit their ability to do so.

The passage of the Bill marks a significant step in addressing the challenges faced by senior citizens in a rapidly changing society. By introducing enforceable financial accountability, the Telangana government aims to reinforce familial responsibility and ensure dignity and care for the elderly.