ABSTRACT
At the Chief Justices’ Conference held on 9–10 March 2006, two key resolutions were adopted: first, the High Courts would urge State Governments to establish Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) wherever absent; and second, each High Court would nominate a judge to oversee the condition and functioning of remand and observation homes under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000. Pursuant to this, the Delhi High Court designated a Juvenile Justice Committee (JJC) and nominated the author – then a sitting judge – to lead the initiative. Drawing on his direct involvement, the author offers critical insights from site visits to Observation Homes for Boys, highlighting the ground realities of juvenile care and the necessity of aligning key stakeholders such as the Principal Magistrates of JJBs, the Social Welfare Department, and NGOs. The JJC’s core objective was to promote rehabilitation and welfare, with support from international bodies like UNICEF. Through awareness, stakeholder engagement, and child-centered activities, the committee worked toward integrating juveniles into mainstream society. This chapter further explores the evolving role of JJCs, particularly those of the Supreme Court and various High Courts, and suggests a forward-looking roadmap for enhancing Juvenile Justice oversight in India.
