Karnataka HC quashes eviction of widow under Senior Citizens Act

The Karnataka high court has quashed an eviction order against a widow, ruling that eviction under the Senior Citizens Act is not automatic. Justice Suraj Govindaraj held that the tribunal must record reasons showing eviction is necessary and expedient for the senior citizen's maintenance.

The case involves LP Veena, whose mother-in-law Mahadevamma sought her eviction from a family property in Bengaluru. The court noted the power to evict is discretionary and cannot be exercised when bona fide civil claims are pending. It said the tribunal must consider lesser measures like maintenance orders before resorting to eviction.

Veena had challenged the April 2025 tribunal order, arguing her husband had a one-third share in the property. While the high court held the civil suit's pendency does not deprive the tribunal of jurisdiction, it ruled eviction requires prior adjudication by a civil court. The order was passed in early August.