Theoretical Review of the Indian Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (Juvenile Justice Act), is a foundation stone of child protection law in India. It represents the commitment of the Indian state to international standards set by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). This theoretical review critically examines the evolution, principles, implementation, and controversies surrounding the Act, particularly its 2015 amendment that allows for juveniles aged 16–18 to be tried as adults for heinous crimes. The paper explores the intersection of legal theory, child psychology, restorative justice, and human rights within the framework of the Juvenile Justice Act.