Team Blitz India
CHIEF Justice of India DY Chandrachud has said juvenile justice systems must adapt by enhancing international cooperation and sharing best practices to tackle growing transnational digital crimes involving minors, amidst the rapid evolution of technology. The CJI made the comments in his keynote address at the National Symposium on Juvenile Justice, organised by the Supreme Court of Nepal.
He said the way people treat children leaves a lasting impact on their mind, as he revealed how corporal punishment he faced at his school has remained imprinted in his heart and soul, said a report published in Bar and Bench.
Lifetime impact
The CJI recalled how he was caned on his hands though he had requested the teacher to cane him on his “bum”.
“How you treat children leaves a deep impact in their mind for lifetime. I will never forget the day in school, I was not a juvenile delinquent, when I was caned on my hands and my offence was not to bring right sized needles to class for a craftwork. I still remember pleading my teacher to cane me on my bum and not my hand,” CJI Chandrachud recalled.
Calling for a sensitive and reformoriented approach to the children in conflict with law as well as child victims of various crimes, the CJI said,” When discussing juvenile justice, we have to recognise the vulnerabilities and unique needs of children embroiled in legal conflicts and ensure that our justice systems respond with empathy, rehabilitation, and opportunities for reintegration into society.”
Viral internet hoax
Commenting on the larger concept of juvenile justice, CJI Chandrachud referred to a recent case in which the Supreme Court had to deal with a plea seeking termination of pregnancy of a minor rape victim. “Juvenile justice is not confined solely to the dictates of the Juvenile Justice Act but is rather shaped by the intricate interplay of various legislative Acts,” the CJI said.
DY Chandrachud Chief Justice of India
On the dangers children face on digital platforms, he cited the example of the ‘Momo Challenge’, a viral internet hoax that targeted children. The CJI said, “This hoax purported a series of escalating dares, including self-harm or suicide, although it was later debunked. Its rapid dissemination highlights the susceptibility of juveniles to online dangers. There is a need for proactive measures to educate and safeguard young individuals in the digital age, emphasising digital literacy, responsible online behaviour, and effective parental guidance as crucial components in mitigating cyberrelated risks”.
