The Lower house of the Parliament has passed the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Bill  to make changes in the existing juvenile justice act. The amendment will pave the way for juveniles between the ages of 16 to 18 years to be tried in adult courts if they are found to commit any heinous crimes. All parties voted unanimously in favour of the bill.

The bill states that whether an accused between 16 and 18 years should be tried as an adult will be decided by a Juvenile Justice Board. Based upon the preliminary inquiry of the board, juvenile offender will be either sent for rehabilitation or will be tried as an adult.

The bill also has provision for the establishment of Child Welfare Committees (CWC) in every district of the country. The Welfare committees will determine institutional care for juvenile in need of care and protection.

Tidbits

• The Juvenile Justice Board will comprise psychologists and social experts.
• The passed legislation, would replace the Juvenile Justice Act, 2000.
• The demand for punishment of juveniles in the age group of 16-18 years has raised since the infamous Nirbhaya rape and murder case in December of 2012.

GK Questions

• What is the name of BBC’s documentary related to the Nirbhaya Rape case? India’s Daughter
• Who is the Director of the documentary India’s Daughter? Leslee Udwin
• In 2015-16 Budget, how much money was allocated to Nirbhaya Fund? Rs 1000 crore