← Child protection and juvenile justiceJuvenile justice and care pathwaysFind a topicSearchThe JJ and POCSO frameworks define a child as under eighteenCare needs and alleged offences lead to distinct child-protection pathwaysChildren have a right to participate in decisions affecting themThe child’s best interests guide protective decisionsInstitutional care is a last resort after inquiryJuvenile Justice Boards handle children in conflict with lawPreliminary assessment is distinct from a trial as an adultThe heinous-offence category depends on the minimum sentenceThe amended serious-offence category includes specified low-minimum offencesChild Welfare Committees decide care and rehabilitation casesThe District Magistrate reviews Child Welfare Committees and hears grievancesRehabilitation prioritises an individual plan and family-based careChild-care institutions require registration regardless of grant fundingThe District Magistrate issues adoption orders under the amended JJ frameworkCARA regulates adoption and performs Hague central-authority functionsDistrict Child Protection Units coordinate implementation under district supervision
