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Source– The post is based on the article “JUVENILE JUSTICE LAW:PERSON WITH MATURITY MUST NOT GET BLANKET IMMUNITY FROM CRIMINAL PROCESS” published in The INDIAN EXPRESS on 28th November 2022.
Syllabus: GS2- Laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection of vulnerable sections.
Relevance– Protection of juveniles
News– The article explains the observation made by the Supreme Court in its judgement on the infamous Kathua rape murder case.
What is Juvenile Justice Law?
The Juvenile Justice(Care and Protection of Children) Act,2015 is an act to strengthen and amend the laws relating to the children who are alleged to be in conflict with law and the children who are in the need of care and protection.
In this act the role and powers of Juvenile Justice Board and Children Welfare Board are defined.
Under this act the Central Adoption Resource Authority is given statutory powers.
What are the main observations made by the Supreme Court in this regard?
- The rising rate of juvenile delinquency in India is a matter of concern and requires immediate attention.
- There is a school of thought existing in our country. It firmly believes that howsoever heinous the crime may be, be it single rape, gangrape, drug peddling, or murder but if the accused is a juvenile, he should be dealt with keeping in mind only one thing. It is the goal of reformation.
What is the Way forward?
Juvenile Justice Laws should be made more easier for the victim, their parents and other social organizations to get the necessary support and ensure that their child returns to a normal life. This should be done in addition to addressing the procedural loopholes and ensuring rapid delivery of justice.
