📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Meghalaya High Court
Crime
Meghalaya HC Chief Justice calls for ‘audit of our conscience’ on juvenile justice
✍️ The Shillong Times
🗓 04 Sep 2026, 07:18 AM
👁 5
The Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court urged a thorough review of the state’s juvenile justice framework, describing it as an ‘audit of our conscience’.
Shillong – In a recent address, the Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court highlighted the urgent need to reassess the juvenile justice system in the state. He described the process as an “audit of our conscience”, urging courts, law‑enforcement agencies and child welfare bodies to examine whether current practices protect the rights of minors in conflict with the law.
The chief justice pointed out gaps in timely case disposal, the adequacy of rehabilitation measures, and the implementation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. He called for coordinated action among the judiciary, police, and social services to ensure that juveniles receive appropriate legal safeguards and rehabilitative support.
He also emphasized that the judiciary must lead by example, adopting transparent monitoring mechanisms and periodic reviews to identify systemic shortcomings. The remarks came amid growing concerns over delayed trials and the reintegration of young offenders into society.
Stakeholders were urged to submit recommendations within a stipulated period, after which the court may issue directives to address identified deficiencies. The chief justice’s call reflects a broader national focus on strengthening juvenile justice reforms.
The High Court will monitor progress and may convene a follow‑up hearing to assess the impact of any measures adopted in response to the audit.
The chief justice pointed out gaps in timely case disposal, the adequacy of rehabilitation measures, and the implementation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. He called for coordinated action among the judiciary, police, and social services to ensure that juveniles receive appropriate legal safeguards and rehabilitative support.
He also emphasized that the judiciary must lead by example, adopting transparent monitoring mechanisms and periodic reviews to identify systemic shortcomings. The remarks came amid growing concerns over delayed trials and the reintegration of young offenders into society.
Stakeholders were urged to submit recommendations within a stipulated period, after which the court may issue directives to address identified deficiencies. The chief justice’s call reflects a broader national focus on strengthening juvenile justice reforms.
The High Court will monitor progress and may convene a follow‑up hearing to assess the impact of any measures adopted in response to the audit.