Empowering Youth Justice: One-Day Seminar on the Juvenile Justice Act

Date: 7th January 2025
Location: IRMA Office, Manipur

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Championing Child Rights Through Legal Literacy

On January 7th, 2025, the Integrated Rural Management Association (IRMA) hosted a One-Day Seminar on the Juvenile Justice Act at its office in Manipur, underscoring its ongoing commitment to promoting legal awareness and child protection.

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🌟 Guest of Honor: Madam Shanti

The seminar was led by Madam Shanti, a respected member of the Juvenile Justice Board of Senapati, who shared her expert insights into the intricacies of juvenile law in India and its implementation in the region.

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📝 Seminar Highlights

Welcome Address

Chief Functionary T. Lamjaneng Haokip officially opened the seminar at 11 a.m., setting the tone with remarks on the importance of understanding juvenile justice, especially in communities affected by conflict and social challenges.

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📚 Key Discussions

Definition of “Juvenile”

• Defined as any person below the age of 18, aligning with national and international legal standards.

Historical Context of the Act

• Traced the evolution from the Juvenile Justice Act of 1986 to the JJ Act of 2000, which removed gender-based distinctions.
• Highlighted the Juvenile Justice Bill of 2015, allowing for minors aged 16–18 years to be tried as adults in heinous crime cases—a significant shift in juvenile jurisprudence.

Juvenile Justice in Manipur

• Affirmed the continued enforcement of the 2015 Act, along with its latest amendments, in the state.

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⚖️ Institutional Roles & Legal Framework

Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) and Child Welfare Committee (CWC):

• Tasked with adjudicating juvenile cases and ensuring rehabilitation.
• Mandated to protect children in need of care, with institutions like Children Homes, Sheltered Homes, and Short Stay Homes established for their welfare.

Legal Protections:

• Emphasized that all decisions made by the JJB are legally binding and guided by legal professionals, ensuring a fair and protective process for minors.

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🏛️ Government Initiatives Highlighted

Madam Shanti elaborated on several welfare programs aimed at child development and protection, including:

• Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS)
• District Child Protection Unit (DCPU)

These initiatives were discussed as essential pillars in preventing juvenile delinquency and promoting holistic child welfare.

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🤝 Open Dialogue and Closing Reflections

Participants, including IRMA staff and community workers, actively engaged in a Q&A session, exploring practical concerns and clarifying their understanding of juvenile rights and legal procedures.

The seminar concluded with Madam Shanti presenting a resource publication that outlined the specific roles and responsibilities of the Juvenile Justice Board—a valuable guide for both professionals and the public.

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☕ Refreshments and Fellowship

Attendees were invited to enjoy light refreshments, providing an opportunity for informal discussion and continued learning in a relaxed setting.

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✨ Conclusion

This seminar served as a crucial platform for legal literacy and awareness, equipping participants with the knowledge to advocate for children’s rights and support effective juvenile justice in their communities.

IRMA remains steadfast in its mission to create a safe, just, and nurturing environment for every child in Manipur and beyond.

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To learn more about our initiatives or get involved, visit www.irma.org.in.