‘Juveniles should not be given harsh punishments’

At a time when rape cases in Delhi involving juveniles are on the rise, many in the public forums have asked for the change of law in order to provide stricter and harsher punishments to the juveniles. They have also raised their voices and urged the law to treat the juveniles the same way as the adult criminals. 

Many child right groups and psychologists, however, feel that the juvenile cases must be looked into carefully before doling out severe punishment to them. Komal of Child Rights and You (CRY) said: “There have been media reports where most of them sensationalise figures saying that there has been an increase in juvenile crimes. However, in relation to the overall population, the crimes committed are very low.” When asked why among the many recent cases of sexual offences reported in Delhi, involves juvenile offenders, Komal said: “It is important to look at their background. Most of these offenders are economically not privileged and have shortage of opportunities and they therefore turn to violence. Dr Dherandra Kumar, a renowned psychologist said: “A proper perspective must be taken in handling juvenile criminals and their past must be taken into consideration before giving punishment.” 

When asked why most of the juveniles getting involved were so brutal in their actions, Dr Kumar said: “Most of these offenders who indulge in such activities have broken families, witness violence around them, feel a sense of loneliness and in all this commit such heinous acts.” Education and acceptance should be the key rather than only retribution, stated many experts.