Section 18 of The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007
- (1)The State Government shall designate the District Social Welfare or an officer not below the rank of a District Social Welfare Officer, by whatever name called as Maintenance Officer.
- (2)The Maintenance Officer referred to in sub-section (1), shall represent a parent if he so desires, during the proceedings of the Tribunal, or the Appellate Tribunal, as the case may be.
Summary
- The State Government must designate a Maintenance Officer.
- The designated person must be the District Social Welfare Officer or an officer of an equivalent or higher rank.
- The Maintenance Officer's duty is to represent a parent during the proceedings.
- This representation is voluntary and happens only if the parent desires it.
- The Maintenance Officer can represent the parent before both the Maintenance Tribunal and the Appellate Tribunal.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. Who designates the Maintenance Officer?
The State Government is responsible for designating the Maintenance Officer.
2. Who can be designated as a Maintenance Officer?
The District Social Welfare Officer or any officer who is not below that rank must be designated.
3. Is a parent forced to be represented by the Maintenance Officer?
No, the Maintenance Officer will represent the parent only if the parent desires or requests it.
4. Can the Maintenance Officer represent the parent in appeals?
Yes, the Maintenance Officer can represent the parent during proceedings of both the Tribunal and the Appellate Tribunal.
Test yourself
Q1.Under Section 18 of The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, who is responsible for designating the Maintenance Officer?
Q2.Under Section 18 of The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, what is the minimum rank required to be designated as a Maintenance Officer?
Q3.Under Section 18 of The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, what condition must be met for the Maintenance Officer to represent a parent in proceedings?
Q4.Under Section 18 of The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, in which forums can the Maintenance Officer represent a parent?