Parliamentary Committee Rejects Govt. proposal to Try Juveniles as Adults

26 Feb, New Delhi

A parliamentary committee has rejected the government’s proposal to try juveniles between 16 to 18 years as adults for heinous crimes like rape and murder.

The committee after extensive deliberations with stakeholders, including NGOs, and consideration of data from the National Crime Records Bureau concluded that the existing juvenile system is not only reformative and rehabilitative in nature but also recognises the fact that 16-18 years is an extremely sensitive and critical age requiring greater protection.

Hence, there is no need to subject them to different or adult judicial system as it will go against articles 14 (equality before law) of the Constitution. The committee has recommended that the entire process needs a re-look and review.

Last year in August, Union Cabinet had proposed drastic changes in the Act, in view of rising juvenile crimes. The move is expected to reignite the debate over the amendments to the Juvenile Justice Act, which had been proposed by the ministry of women and child development.