BALANCING PUNISHMENT AND SUPPORT: AN ANALYSIS OF THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM

This paper examines the issues and potential solutions surrounding the rehabilitation and punishment of young offenders by examining different legal frameworks in India. Also, it analyses landmark cases that have shaped legal and public perceptions, highlighting the complexity of juvenile crime and its consequences. The rise in juvenile delinquency in India is a significant problem that calls for effective measures. The government has created several laws, acts, and guidelines to help reduce violence among young people, but these efforts have not been that effective.

This might be due to the current laws regarding minors, which do not adequately prevent delinquent behavior, and the lack of proper services and rehabilitation programs. In India, the way children and adults are treated for crimes has been different for a long time. This practice started even before British laws were in place. Hindu and Islamic traditions both had specific guidelines for punishing minors, understanding that children are not as accountable as adults.

Solving this major legal and social problem will be a joint effort that includes not only government bodies but also the community, parents, the general public, and other involved parties. A coordinated approach from all these groups is vital in order to eliminate this issue from the root and successfully addressing this problem will benefit the nation’s growth and future development. The Juvenile Justice System is a dynamic and extensive framework used globally to support the overall growth of children. This aims to analyze and explore the historical development, current challenges, and future directions of the juvenile justice framework in India, particularly in light of recent legislative changes and social dynamics.