Juvenile justice in pakistan

 

Juvenile justice in Pakistan refers to the legal system and processes that are in place to address criminal offenses committed by individuals who are under the age of 18. The objective of the juvenile justice system is to provide rehabilitation and reintegration opportunities for young offenders, rather than focusing solely on punishment.

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The Juvenile Justice System Ordinance (JJSO) is the primary legislation governing juvenile justice in Pakistan. It was enacted in 2000 and provides a framework for the treatment of juvenile offenders. The JJSO establishes separate courts, known as Juvenile Courts, to handle cases involving juveniles. These courts are responsible for ensuring that the rights of young offenders are protected and that they receive appropriate care, treatment, and rehabilitation.

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Under the JJSO, a child in conflict with the law is defined as a person who is alleged or found to have committed an offense before reaching the age of 18. The ordinance recognizes that children have different needs and vulnerabilities compared to adults, and therefore requires that their cases be dealt with in a manner that takes into account their age, maturity, and social background.

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When a child is apprehended for an offense, they are initially taken to a police station where they should be treated with care and provided with necessary support. The police are required to inform the child's parents or guardians about their arrest and ensure that they are present during any questioning or investigation. The JJSO also prohibits the detention of children in police lock-ups or adult jails.

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Once a case reaches the Juvenile Court, it is dealt with by a judge who specializes in juvenile justice matters. The court proceedings aim to be informal and child-friendly, ensuring that the child understands the charges against them and has access to legal representation. The court may also appoint a probation officer or social worker to assess the child's background and recommend appropriate interventions.

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The JJSO emphasizes diversionary measures as an alternative to formal court proceedings. Diversion programs aim to divert young offenders away from the criminal justice system and towards community-based rehabilitation and reintegration services. These programs may include counseling, education, vocational training, and community service.

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It is important to note that despite the existence of legislation and mechanisms for juvenile justice in Pakistan, there are challenges and shortcomings in its implementation. Limited resources, lack of trained personnel, and societal attitudes towards juvenile offenders can hinder the effective functioning of the system. Efforts are being made by various stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society organizations, to address these issues and improve the juvenile justice system in Pakistan.

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