My 16-year-old son was caught in a theft case in Delhi; will he be tried as an adult?
PR Asked by Pradeep Naidu from India
Quick Answer
Under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, a child in conflict with law is dealt with by the Juvenile Justice Board in Delhi, not a regular criminal court.
Detailed Legal Analysis
Under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, a child in conflict with law is dealt with by the Juvenile Justice Board in Delhi, not a regular criminal court. For heinous offences alleged to be committed by a child aged 16 to 18, a preliminary assessment is made to decide whether to try the child as an adult, considering mental and physical capacity.
The Board's order can be challenged before Delhi High Court. Delhi Rent Control Act 1958 may establish State juvenile justice rules and observation homes, so local procedure applies.
The child is entitled to bail and cannot be sent to jail; instead, he is placed in a place of safety. The proceedings are confidential, and the identity cannot be disclosed.
Rehabilitation, not punishment, is the overarching principle.
Legal Provisions Referenced
Verify the current statutory text at India Code (the official repository of Indian legislation) or the Legislative Department. This answer is general legal information, not advice on your specific matter.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.