Abstract

The Juvenile Justice system has seen a remarkable transformation where the society’s understanding about youth offenders has evolved where the focus on unique development needs has improved. Earlier they were treated very differently, as same as adults, but now they are seen through the lenses of rehabilitation and restoration, which gives them a chance to be a part of the society and gives them an opportunity to lead or normal life. The shift had began in the late 19th and 20th century where legal global frameworks like the Beijing Rules, Havana Rules, and Riyadh Guidelines played an important role in emphasizing the need to protect young offenders and provide them an opportunity to develop rather than being destroyed. This study is focused on the history and challenges, and also the future of juvenile justice along with comparing the approaches around the world. From the restorative programs in Germany and Australia and the evolving frameworks of the United States and India, it highlights how the society and the community can help as a powerful tool to remove the flaws in the Juvenile Justice law and give a new pathway to the youth, by reducing recidivism and promoting reintegration. With the help of education, counselling, and psychological development, the root causes of delinquency could be destroyed, and a new chance can be given to the lives and protect them from the vicious circle of crime that is endless and inescapable. India’s own Juvenile Justice system has gone through various transformations, with the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015, along with landmark cases, Sheela Barse v. Union of India and Hari Ram v. State of Rajasthan, has tried to bring a balance between maintaining accountability with care. It demonstrates the importance of treating juveniles with dignity and fairness along with making sure that serious offences by older juveniles should be punished, ensuring a nuanced approach to justice. But as the journey is very long, and it starts with just a single step, even after hurdles, we continue. Similarly, the challenges like resource limitation, inconsistent legal frameworks, and growing technological-related crimes like cybercrime are hurdles in the journey of achieving an ideal juvenile justice system. There is an important need to address the vulnerable population of the world along with focusing on improving the conditions of juveniles for a systematic change. At its heart, this research underscores the importance of hope, hope for that system doesn’t just punish, but transforms, hope for offenders to build their lives and hope for society to value redemption over retribution. By prioritising the importance of rehabilitation and community involvement and incorporating the international best practices, we can create a juvenile system that does not just give them a new path but also become their polestar that will be the guiding light for the brighter future of these young lives.

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