Abstract

The rehabilitation of “Children in conflict with the law” is a pressing issue in India, where there are approximately 33,000 children in various stages of the criminal justice system. The traditional punitive approach to dealing with these children has been criticized for being ineffective and failing to address the underlying causes of their criminal behavior. This research paper explores the concept of rehabilitation in the context of “Children in conflict with the law” in India and advocates for a reformative approach. The paper reviews the current legal framework for juvenile justice in India and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the existing system. The paper argues that a reformative approach is necessary to address the root causes of criminal behavior in children, such as poverty, neglect, and lack of education. It advocates for a multi-disciplinary approach that includes legal, social, and psychological interventions to support the rehabilitation of children. The paper also examines the challenges faced by the juvenile justice system in India, such as overcrowding in juvenile homes, delays in the legal process, and inadequate resources. It recommends that the government invest in the necessary resources to support the rehabilitation of “Children in conflict with the law” and improve the infrastructure of juvenile justice institutions. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of involving the children themselves, as well as their families and communities, in the rehabilitation process. It suggests that community-based rehabilitation programs be implemented to ensure a holistic approach to rehabilitation. In conclusion, this research paper highlights the need for a reformative approach to the rehabilitation of “Children in conflict with the law” in India. It recommends that legal systems and policymakers adopt a child-centric approach that prioritizes the rehabilitation of children and invest in the necessary resources to support this approach.

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