Section 14 of JJ Act : Section 14: Inquiry By Board Regarding Child In Conflict With Law

Explanation using Example

Let's say a 15-year-old named Rohan is caught shoplifting a small item from a local store. The store owner decides to press charges, and Rohan is taken into custody by the police. He is then produced before the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB).

Upon Rohan's appearance, the JJB begins an inquiry into the incident as per Section 14(1) of The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. Since shoplifting is considered a petty offence, the Board aims to complete the inquiry quickly, ideally within four months as per Section 14(2).

The Board ensures that Rohan has not been mistreated by the police and that he is provided a child-friendly atmosphere during the proceedings, in line with Section 14(5)(a) and (b). Rohan is also given a chance to speak and participate in the inquiry, fulfilling the requirement of Section 14(5)(c).

Given the nature of the offence, the JJB decides to conduct summary proceedings as per Section 14(5)(d), which are simpler and faster. The aim is to rehabilitate Rohan rather than subject him to a harsh criminal process, keeping in mind his age and the minor nature of the offence.