Juvenile delinquency has emerged as a significant social concern. Historically, children were treated like adult offenders. However, modern penology recognizes that children lack mature judgment and are capable of reform Internationally, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which mandates child-friendly justice systems focusing on rehabilitation India, being a signatory, enacted the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 replacing the 2000 Act.

The administration of juvenile justice represents one of the most sensitive and evolving areas of criminal jurisprudence. Unlike the traditional criminal justice system, which primarily emphasizes deterrence and retribution, the juvenile justice system is founded on the principles of reform, rehabilitation, and social reintegration. In India, the framework governing children in conflict with law is primarily regulated by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which reflects both constitutional mandates and international obligations. The Act seeks to strike a delicate balance between holding juveniles accountable for their actions and ensuring that their age, mental maturity, and potential for reform are given due consideration.