European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

            The present study aims to identify the factors associated with juvenile delinquency and the gaps in the existing juvenile justice system from the perspective of Indian population. A random survey was conducted on the local population of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Total 134 persons from different professional (lawyer, judge, competent authority at imprisonment/detention centres, police, law enforcement officers)& non-professional (student, civilian, juvenile delinquent, relatives to victim) backgrounds participated in the survey. The questionnaire was designed such that it collected opinions of participants about juvenile delinquency & associated legal ramifications. Analysis of the responses received from the participants suggested that prevailing justice system for juveniles need some major reforms. Majority of them believed that poor economic background, lack of communication within family or parents and discourse in the family are some of the main factors leading to the delinquency among juveniles. Further, they also agreed upon the fact that the juveniles committing heinous crimes including murder, rape, and homicide should either be transferred from jurisdiction of juvenile court to adult court or should be tried like an adult once the age limit of a juvenile is crossed. Detention for crimes related to property damage was also strongly suggested by the participants. Role of parents & society in dissuading children from committing crimes is critical and rehabilitation centres at local level could be more effective in controlling juvenile crimes. Findings of this study also recommend expansion of family/juvenile court jurisdiction, implementation of evidence based practices (including assessment for risk and/or mental health issues), reduction of gang activity, and amending shackling/arresting activity at district/state/central government level.