| Abstract: |
Juvenile justice is not merely a branch of criminal law; it is a constitutional, social and moral commitment to protect childhood, correct vulnerability and restore dignity. India’s Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 creates a rights-based framework for children in conflict with law and children in need of care and protection. It incorporates child-friendly procedures, rehabilitation, social reintegration, foster care, sponsorship, after-care, individual care plans and institutional accountability (Government of India, 2016). Yet the transformative promise of the statute depends upon how it is implemented at the State, district and community levels. Chhattisgarh presents a significant field for such inquiry because of its rural, tribal, socio-economically diverse and conflict-sensitive contexts. This article examines the policy architecture, institutional practices and societal impact of juvenile justice reform in India with special reference to Chhattisgarh. It argues that reform must move beyond formal compliance and toward a child-sensitive ecosystem built on prevention, diversion, mental health support, education, family strengthening, trained professionals, transparent data, effective Juvenile Justice Boards, active Child Welfare Committees, community-based rehabilitation and meaningful after-care. |
