The Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA) conducted a State Level Interaction cum Sensitization Programme on Juvenile Justice at the High Court of Manipur. The event featured Justice M. Sundar, Chief Justice of the High Court of Manipur, as the Chief Guest, alongside Justice A. Bimol Singh and Justice A. Guneshwar Sharma as Guests of Honour, with participation from various members of the judiciary, social welfare officials, police, and clinical psychologists.
Justice Sundar emphasized that juvenile justice transcends legal issues and encompasses significant social responsibilities. He described children as “uncut diamonds,” whose potential risks being marred by negative environments. He remarked on the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which aims to balance compassion with accountability, focusing on rehabilitation through counselling, education, and vocational training. He outlined the roles of key statutory bodies like the Juvenile Justice Board and Child Welfare Committee, which address the needs of children in conflict with the law and those in need of protection. Moreover, he stressed the importance of implementing the Act effectively through appropriate infrastructure, trained personnel, and collaboration among involved parties.
Justice Bimol highlighted the Juvenile Justice system’s role in safeguarding children’s rights and futures, asserting that peace in society hinges on the protection and well-being of children. He pointed out the importance of the Social Welfare Department in executing the Act via Child Care Institutions and District Child Protection Units. Furthermore, he mentioned the necessity of establishing Observation Homes in every district to prevent delays in cases concerning children and laid out the legal obligations for presenting children before the Juvenile Justice Board post apprehension.
Justice Guneshwar asserted the reformative nature of the Juvenile Justice Act, focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration into society rather than punishment. He warned that lapses in responsibilities could impede the Act’s effective implementation. Stakeholders from various departments presented their experiences and challenges during the interactive session, fostering shared insights on improving the juvenile justice system’s effectiveness and timely, child-friendly justice delivery. Overall, the programme aimed to enhance coordination among stakeholders to ensure the welfare of children processed through the juvenile justice framework.
