• Babulal Dargad

Abstract Children are a valuable resource for our nation, and it is incumbent upon all members of society to guarantee their well-being by providing a secure living environment. However, during the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the incidence of juvenile crime within a developing nation such as India. Currently, the prevalence of juvenile crime in our culture can be likened to a pervasive ailment. The criminal justice system in India exhibits differential treatment towards certain offences and offers some exemptions and tolerance to specific groups of individuals. The Indian Penal Code enumerates certain exclusions, with the court demonstrating leniency in imposing penalties for juvenile offenders, as evidenced by the establishment of a distinct legislation specifically addressing juvenile justice. The term "juvenile" has been subject to varying definitions across successive legislative acts. However, according to the most recent legislation, namely The Juvenile Justice (care and Protection) Act, those who have not yet reached the age of 18 are considered juveniles. The existence of a distinct juvenile justice system can be attributed to the recognition within our culture that juveniles possess distinct characteristics from adults, which warrant differential treatment. These characteristics encompass both the level of culpability attributed to juveniles and their possibility for rehabilitation. While there exists apprehension for public safety and the need to ensure that young offenders are held responsible for their conduct, the juvenile justice system places a stronger emphasis on the process of rehabilitation rather than punishment. The term "rehabilitation" refers to the process of restoring an individual to a functional and productive life through the implementation of therapeutic interventions and educational measures. For instance, in the case of a minor who engages in delinquent behaviour, it may be mandated for them to partake in counselling or a rehabilitative intervention aimed at fostering improved decision-making abilities in subsequent instances. However, considering the current circumstances, does the process of "Rehabilitation" truly result in the transformation of the child? Despite the existence of legislation pertaining to care for minors, there has been an increase in the prevalence of juvenile offenders nationwide. Juveniles are placed in rehabilitation facilities with the aim of improving their prospects for the future. Rehabilitation centres are established with the aim of providing specialised care and protection to children, with the expectation that they will undergo a transformative process and reintegrate into society as reformed individuals.

Keywords –Juvenile Justice, Juvenile Rehabilitation, Delinquent Care Child Welfare

"''Juvenile Justice and Rehabilitation System in India''", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.5, Issue 10, page no.592-597, October-2018, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1810B38.pdf

"''Juvenile Justice and Rehabilitation System in India''", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.5, Issue 10, page no. pp592-597, October-2018, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1810B38.pdf