Juvenile Justice And The Digital Age: Addressing Cybercrime Committed By Juveniles
- IJLLR Journal
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Kiriti Kala, Amity Law School, Amity University Noida
ABSTRACT
India’s juvenile justice system is built on the belief that young individuals who come into conflict with the law should be guided toward rehabilitation and social reintegration, rather than subjected to punitive measures. Central to this vision is the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which seeks to align national legal provisions with international child rights standards. The Act reflects a progressive approach, placing the best interests of the child at the core of juvenile justice. However, despite its strong foundation, the system continues to face persistent and complex challenges that undermine its goals.
One of the most significant issues is the disconnect between what the law envisions and how it is implemented on the ground. A particularly troubling example is the inconsistent process of determining a juvenile's age. In the absence of reliable documents, arbitrary assessments often lead to unfair classification and treatment of minors. To protect the rights of every child, there is an urgent need to introduce standardized, scientific, and legally sound methods for age verification.
Another pressing concern lies in the inadequate infrastructure and lack of resources in rehabilitation and observation homes. Many of these institutions are overcrowded, understaffed, and ill-equipped to provide the kind of care, education, and psychological support that young offenders need. Turning these centres into truly rehabilitative spaces will require substantial investment in staff training, infrastructure development, and the creation of childcentric educational and therapeutic programs.
The stigma attached to juvenile delinquency remains a hidden but powerful barrier to reintegration. After completing their term, many young people find themselves socially isolated, struggling to gain access to education, employment, or even basic community acceptance. Breaking this cycle requires proactive community engagement, public awareness campaigns, and inclusive rehabilitation models that support juveniles in rebuilding their lives.
