UNVEILING THE AGE PERSPECTIVE: A THOROUGH REVIEW OF JUVENILE JUSTICE IN INDIA

Abstract

The escalating concern about Juvenile Justice in India presents a formidable challenge, gravely endangering the welfare and security of the children. The determination of age criteria for children in India poses a complex dilemma within the context of juvenile justice. In fact, one of the key provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Act, 2021, is regarding the determination of the age for juveniles involved in heinous crimes. Accurate age determination is crucial for determining the treatment of children within the justice system. Incorrect age determinations can lead to either harsher punishments or inadequate rehabilitation opportunities, undermining justice and child protection.

Hence, understanding the existing legal framework of the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility (MACR), age-wise distribution of crimes committed by juveniles and crimes against children is of paramount importance in addressing the challenges of formulating effective strategies within the realm of juvenile justice.

This article presents a comprehensive review of the juvenile justice system in India, with a specific focus on the age perspective, the existing legal framework of the Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility (MACR) in India, age-wise distribution of crimes committed by juveniles and crimes against children. By unravelling the age perspective, this thorough article contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in India's juvenile justice system. It underscores the significance of considering age as a fundamental factor in the pursuit of fair, equitable, and effective juvenile justice practices in the country.