Critically evaluate the implications of lowering the age of juvenility to 14 in the context of the juvenile justice system in India. How does it affect rehabilitation and human rig

1. Context and Background

• Proposal to lower age of juvenility from 18 to 14 for certain heinous crimes
• Intended to deter rising violent crimes involving adolescents

2. Implications for Rehabilitation

• 14–18-year-olds may be tried in adult courts
• Exposure to punitive detention can hinder social reintegration
• Undermines juvenile system’s focus on education, counseling, and correction

3. Human Rights Concerns

• Potential conflict with UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
• Best interest and reintegration principles may be compromised
• Marginalized children may be disproportionately affected

4. Balancing Public Safety and Developmental Justice

• Strengthen specialized juvenile courts and diversion programs
• Employ risk assessment tools and graduated sentencing
• Ensure accountability while preserving rehabilitative focus

5. Way Forward

• Adopt restorative justice and community-based rehabilitation
• Integrate mental health interventions for adolescents
• Maintain protective intent of juvenile justice system alongside societal safety