ENSURING REFORMATION AND REHABILITATION FOR JUVENILES – A WAY FORWARD FOR CHILDREN IN CONFLICT WITH LAW

DOI: https://doie.org/10.10399/APER.2025681121

Authors:

Lovish Minocha, Dr. Avnish Singh

Keywords:

juvenile justice reform, adolescent development, restorative justice, rehabilitation models, India JJ Act.

Abstract:

The juvenile justice framework prioritizes rehabilitation and behavioural transformation for young offenders, recognizing their distinct developmental needs rather than focusing on punishment. This study presents a comprehensive examination of contemporary juvenile justice systems, with particular emphasis on India's legal framework and its alignment with international standards. Grounded in developmental psychology and neuroscience research, the analysis demonstrates that adolescents possess distinct neurobiological characteristics requiring specialized justice approaches. The paper investigates the socio-economic and psychological determinants of juvenile delinquency, revealing significant correlations between poverty, educational deprivation, and offending behaviour. Through systematic evaluation of India’s Juvenile Justice Act 2015 and comparative global models, the study identifies critical implementation gaps including inadequate infrastructure, personnel shortages and systemic delays. The research highlights evidence-based rehabilitation models showing 40-60% greater effectiveness than punitive measures, particularly cognitive behavioural interventions and restorative justice programs

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