Description

The book “Functioning and Challenges of Juvenile Justice Board” provides a comprehensive analysis of the juvenile justice system, particularly focusing on the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), which plays a critical role in handling cases involving minors in conflict with the law. It delves into the operational framework of the JJB, detailing its composition, procedures, and the legal principles guiding its functioning under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act. The book underscores the key objectives of the JJB, including rehabilitation, reform, and reintegration of juveniles rather than punitive measures. It critically examines how the JJB aims to balance accountability for crimes committed by minors with a child-centric approach that prioritizes their well-being and future prospects. However, the book also identifies several challenges faced by the JJB in practice. These include infrastructural and resource limitations, lack of specialized training for board members, delays in case resolutions, and the difficulty in ensuring adequate psychological and social support for the juveniles. It also highlights the systemic gaps in coordination between different stakeholders, such as child welfare committees, police, and NGOs, which often hinder the smooth functioning of the board. Additionally, the book touches on societal attitudes and stigmatization that affect the reintegration of juveniles into society, pointing out the need for greater awareness and support mechanisms. Through case studies and empirical data, the book offers insights into the complexities of juvenile justice in India, suggesting reforms to address these challenges and improve the efficacy of the JJB in fulfilling its rehabilitative mandate.