A ‘Minor’ Concern: An In-Depth Analysis on the Rising Incidents and Crime Cycle of Juvenile Delinquency

Abstract

This paper, titled "A Minor Concern," challenges the prevailing notion that juvenile delinquency is a minor issue, asserting its profound significance in contemporary society. Despite often being marginalised, juvenile delinquency represents a severe challenge that demands immediate and comprehensive attention. The study adopts a multi-faceted approach, beginning with an extensive literature review that exposes systemic flaws, ineffective rehabilitation methods, and socio-economic drivers of juvenile crime. This review forms a critical backdrop for understanding the depth of the issue. The research incorporates an online survey conducted through Google Forms, capturing data from juvenile justice professionals, social workers, and the general public. This survey aims to gauge perceptions and gather empirical data on the prevalence, causes, and effectiveness of current interventions, revealing discrepancies between public views and on-ground realities. Interviews with police officers from C.R. Park, Defence Colony, and Hauz Khas Police Stations provide insights into operational challenges and systemic issues within the juvenile justice system. Their perspectives underscore practical inefficiencies and the urgent need for reform. Further insights are drawn from officers at Delhi Juvenile Home, Majnu-ka-Tila, and The Observation Home for Boys-II, Sewa Kutir, Mukherjee Nagar. Their accounts of the challenges in rehabilitating juvenile offenders highlight the gap between policy intentions and practical outcomes, emphasizing the critical need for effective support and systemic change. In conclusion, "A Minor Concern" aims to demonstrate that juvenile delinquency is a significant issue requiring urgent reform. By integrating literature review, empirical data, and professional insights, the study advocates for a comprehensive revaluation of current juvenile justice practices and the development of effective, evidence-based interventions.