Juvenile Justice System in India: A Critical Study

The Juvenile Justice System in India has undergone significant transformation over the past decades, reflecting a constant tension between rehabilitation and retribution. Rooted in international conventions such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and guided by constitutional principles, the Indian framework seeks to balance the welfare of juveniles with the demands of justice and public safety. The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, along with its amendments, introduced crucial reforms including differentiated treatment for heinous offences by adolescents aged 16–18, thereby sparking wide debate on child rights, culpability, and deterrence. This paper critically examines the evolution, structure, and functioning of the juvenile justice system in India, while situating it within comparative global perspectives. Through an analysis of legislation, case law, and empirical data, it highlights persistent challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, inconsistent implementation, and societal biases. The study argues for a more holistic approach that strengthens rehabilitation and reintegration mechanisms without compromising accountability. The findings emphasize the need for legislative fine-tuning, capacity building, and community-based interventions to create a more balanced and effective juvenile justice system in India.