Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015
The Juvenile Judicial Act of 2015 replaced the Juvenile Justice Act of 2000.
The Act was revised in 2015, changing the term 'juvenile' to 'child' and 'child in conflict with the law'.
It also defines petty, serious, and heinous crimes committed by children.
A heinous offence – maximum penalty of seven years in jail under any current legislation.
A serious offence – a jail sentence of 3 to 7 years.
A pretty offence – up to three years in jail.
Introduction of Juvenile Courts, which meant that special courts would be formed to try Juvenile offences exclusively, similar to NDPS courts, POCSO courts, and so on.
The Act clarifies the roles and powers of the Juvenile Justice Board and the Child Welfare Commission.
The Act establishes an effective and well-organised framework for adopting orphaned, surrendered, and abandoned children.
It also requires all child care establishments to be registered.
The modified Act includes an essential clause that allows juveniles aged 16 to 18 to be treated as adults in the case of heinous crimes.
The Act also establishes the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).
The Act of 2015 distinguishes between children in conflict with the law and children in need of care and protection.
The act also promotes juvenile offender rehabilitation through various child care homes and institutions.
Juvenile Justice Board:
This is a judicial body to which children who have been imprisoned or accused of a crime are taken.
Because teenagers are not to be transported before a regular criminal court, this serves as a separate court.
The Board is made up of a first-class judicial magistrate and two social workers, one of whom must be a woman.
The Board is intended to be a child-friendly environment that is not scary to the youngster.
Child Welfare Commission:
In line with the terms of the Act, the State Governments establish these committees in districts.
The Committees have the authority to hear issues involving the care, protection, treatment, development, and rehabilitation of children in need of care and protection, as well as the provision of their basic requirements and protection.
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