Juvenile Justice Act: A Critical Assessment of Its Role in Supporting Vulnerable Youth Ms. Amruta Arjun Chavan B.SL, LL.B, LL.M, PGDHR, PGCADR, SET, (Ph.D. in Law) Teaching Associate of Law, Maharashtra National Law University, Aurangabad Abstract One important piece of legislation designed to address the interests and rights of young people who are at risk within the legal system is the Juvenile Justice Act. In this research paper the efficacy of the Act in protecting, rehabilitating, and reintegrating young offenders is critically examined. The research outlines important strengths and opportunities for development by analyzing the Act’s provisions, implementation techniques, and results. The study emphasizes the need of a comprehensive strategy that strikes a balance between responsibility and the necessity of compassionate intervention, stressing the contribution of psychological, social, and educational support to good development. This paper intends to add to the current conversation on juvenile justice reform and the development of a more equitable and encouraging system for young people in legal trouble by evaluating the Act’s effects on vulnerable adolescents. This paper critically examines the Juvenile Justice Act and its efficacy in addressing the needs of vulnerable youth within the Indian criminal justice system. With a focus on the socio-legal framework established by the Act, this study explores the challenges and shortcomings in its implementation, particularly concerning marginalized groups. Also, various provisions of the Act, including the rehabilitation measures for juvenile offenders and the legal protections afforded to children in conflict with the law. Keywords: Juvenile Justice Act, Vulnerable Youth, Criminal Justice System, Rehabilitation, Juvenile Delinquency, Child Rights, Legal Framework, Mental Health, Social Justice, Child Protection. etc.