SC order on Juvenile Justice Act: HC takes up suo motu case

The Karnataka High Court has taken up a suo motu case, following the directions of the Supreme Court to ensure effective implementation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.

Chief Justice Dinesh Maheshwari and Justice Sunil Dutt Yadav heard the suo motu  public interest litigation  filed by Ashok Nijagannavar, registrar general of the High Court, seeking directions to the state government, department of child and women development, state commission for protection of child rights and to pass appropriate orders in accordance with the directions of the SC.

The apex court has also asked all high courts to seriously consider establishing child friendly courts and vulnerable witness courts in each district.

The advocate general submitted that all the requirements relating to juvenile justice are being effectively monitored by the juvenile justice committee (JJC) of the High Court. He said he had been attending the meeting of the JJC every month and he shall place on record his response, as indicated in the order passed by the Supreme Court, after the next meeting of the JJC.

The petition states that all authorities like the Juvenile Justice Board, child welfare committees, probation officers, members of child protection societies, district child protection unit, special juvenile police units, child welfare police officers and managerial staff of child care institutions must be sensitised and given adequate training relating to their position. The matter was adjourned for hearing to March 16.