Police and citizens’ groups have renewed their focus on security of senior citizens living alone after the murder of an elderly woman in Langer Houz on Sunday. The domestic help has emerged as the prime suspect. Having become easy targets for obvious reasons, the police say besides snatchers and robbers, many fall victim to their household helps, too. The police, though, say they cannot keep tab on individual senior citizens and can at best increase patrolling.
Meanwhile, senior citizens’ associations are advising members on precautions to be taken to protect themselves. Mr N.S. Narayana, general secretary of the Confederation of Welfare Associations of Mehdipatnam, said they have discussed the issue with the police. He said most members of the association are over 70 and meet at Santoshnagar Park every day. “We have requested the police to increase patrolling there, as also to post some plainclothes personnel,” he said. “Many senior citizens in the city stay alone, as their children either reside abroad or work elsewhere. So they need more security.”
According to Mr Narayana, senior citizens should avoid staying or going out alone, women should conceal jewellery and maintain a safe distance from vehicles on the road. They shouldn’t also entertain strangers, he said, adding that these were some of the instructions passed on to members. West Zone DCP Mr Stephen Raveendra said patrolling would be increased if required. He also advised residents to appoint domestic helps after checking their antecedents.