JUVENILE JUSTICE REFORMS WITH REFERENCE TO 2015 AMENDMENT

The juvenile justice system in India has evolved as a specialized legal framework aimed at
addressing children in conflict with law and those in need of care and protection. Rooted in the
principles of reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration, the system recognizes that children
possess the capacity for change and should not be subjected to the same punitive measures as
adults. Over time, the system has been influenced by constitutional mandates and international
obligations, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
The enactment of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 marked a
significant shift by introducing elements of accountability alongside the traditional welfare-
oriented approach. This study critically examines the evolution of juvenile justice in India,
focusing on historical development, the need for reforms, and the challenges faced in
implementation. It highlights that while the 2015 Act seeks to address contemporary concerns
such as rising juvenile crime, it also raises important questions regarding the preservation of
child rights and rehabilitative principles. The study concludes that a balanced and child-centric
approach is essential to ensure the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system.