In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court reiterates that the assertion of juvenility by the accused remains admissible at any point in the legal process, even after the case’s conclusion. Justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta elucidated that such a plea cannot be summarily dismissed without a thorough investigation.
Critiquing the High Court’s failure to address the appellant’s plea promptly, the bench stressed the necessity of adhering to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act, 2015. Justice Sandeep Mehta, in the authored judgment, highlighted the Act’s provision allowing the assertion of juvenility at any juncture, regardless of case closure.
Referencing the precedent set in the Abuzar Hossain vs State of West Bengal case, the court emphasized the continual viability of juvenility claims, irrespective of the case’s progression. The ruling underscored that delays in raising such claims should not warrant automatic dismissal.
Furthermore, the court mandated the Additional Sessions Judge, Darbhanga, to conduct a meticulous inquiry into the appellant’s age, aligning with the procedures outlined in the JJ Act, 2015.
This decision serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rights and protections afforded to juveniles within the legal framework.
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