14/06/2026
WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY 2026 was observed by Indian Medical Association Calcutta Metro Branch and Banchbo Healing Touch Foundation under the aegis of Indian Medical Association Bengal State at Jatra Shuru Sangha Hall, Garia, South Kolkata on 14th June 2026.
This program witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of senior citizens along with eminent physicians, public health experts, social workers, and representatives of organizations working in the field of elderly welfare.
Distinguished guests included Prof. Dr. Prasanta Bhattacharyya (President, IMA Calcutta Metro & Hony Secretary, JIMA), Prof. Dr. Debasish Basu (Former Principal, Medical College Bengal), Prof. Dr. Ranjan Bhattacharyya (Editor, JIMA & Hony Joint Secretary, IMA Bengal State), Dr. Anirban Dalui (Hony Asst Secretary, IMA HQ & IMA Bengal State), Dr. Tarit Chatterjee (Treasurer, IMA Calcutta Metro) along with several other eminent medical professionals..
A major highlight of the event was a special panel discussion titled: “Break the Silence: Recognize, Prevent and Respond to Elder Abuse.” The panel featured distinguished experts including Dr. Debanjan Banerjee (Consultant Psychiatrist, Apollo Multispeciality Hospital), Dr Rahul Bhattacharyya (Secretary, Geriatric Society of India West Bengal Chapter), Dr Rivu Basu (Eminent Public Health Expert, AIIH&PH), Dr. Udita Ghosh Sarkar (Eminent Gerontologist) and was moderated by Dr. Dhires Chowdhury, Founder-Director of Banchbo Healing Touch Foundation.
The rich and thought-provoking discussion highlighted the various forms of elder abuse, including physical, psychological, financial, and social abuse. Special attention was given to the growing challenges of emotional neglect, social isolation, intergenerational disconnect, loneliness, and digital fraud targeting older adults. Panelists also underscored the responsibilities of families, communities, youth, and older persons themselves in addressing these issues.
As part of the observance, free health consultations and essential health screenings were provided to senior citizens by specialist doctors. Representatives from the Kolkata Police’s PRONAM Project, members of retired employees’ associations, representatives of various NGOs working for elderly welfare, and numerous senior citizens were also present.
The day-long programme, combining awareness, healthcare services, expert deliberations, and cultural activities, reinforced the collective commitment to ensuring dignity, safety, inclusion, and respect for older persons. Thanks to Dr Dhiresh Chowdhury and Team Banchbo Healing Touch Foundation.
Indian Medical Association
WHO India
UNICEF
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India
Geriatric Society Of India West Bengal Branch
Elder Abuse Awareness