In many families across India, adult children are often expected to financially support their parents once they start earning. This expectation, though sometimes seen as a moral duty, can become complicated when parents themselves are not financially independent or have relied heavily on relatives. A recent Reddit post highlights this dilemma, as a 22-year-old Chartered Accountancy (CA) aspirant revealed that his parents demanded a monthly “pension” from him once he begins working, sparking debate about responsibility, fairness, and family dynamics.The Situation of the CA AspirantThe young man, who is preparing for his CA final attempt in a Tier-1 city, recounted that during a visit home in a Tier-2 city, his parents asked him to provide a monthly financial allowance after starting his career. They reportedly justified this by researching typical starting salaries for CAs and expecting that both he and his younger brother would support them. When he resisted, his mother became upset and argued.
He described his parents as currently unemployed, living off rental income and money provided by his father’s elder brother, a businessman. Over the years, this uncle has funded the family’s living expenses and the son’s CA course fees, while encouraging the parents to seek work or start a small business—advice they have ignored, according to the Redditor. He noted that the extended family views his parents as freeloaders, and that his childhood was marked by financial instability due to their dependence on others.
Online Reactions and AdviceReddit users offered varied perspectives. Many suggested he discuss the issue with his uncle to find a fair arrangement that prevents financial exploitation and ensures family harmony. Some advised giving money to the uncle, who could distribute it appropriately, avoiding a situation where both the son and uncle are supporting the parents simultaneously.
Others disagreed, arguing that children have a moral responsibility to support their parents, regardless of their past financial habits. Several highlighted that parents who consistently avoid work create complicated ethical and financial dilemmas for their children.
The situation raises questions about the boundaries of parental expectations. While adult children often support aging parents, commentors note that the fairness of such demands depends on the parents’ independence, health, and willingness to contribute. In this case, the Redditor expressed concern that providing a pension would perpetuate what he sees as a pattern of dependency, distracting him from his career goals.
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