Kerala/Alive News: The Kerala High Court has observed that the time has come for the legislature to consider reducing the age of juveniles and children in conflict with law from 18 to 16 years, citing changing trends and the maturity level of children.
Justice A Badharudeen made the observation while hearing a petition seeking stricter enforcement of laws prohibiting the sale and serving of alcohol to people below 23 years of age.
The petition was filed by Kollam resident Vinod Vikram, who referred to a recent accident in Nedumbassery involving an 18-year-old allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. The car rammed into a scooter, killing three people.
In its interim order, the court said lawmakers should consider appropriate amendments to the existing statutes governing juveniles and children in conflict with law, taking into account the apparent maturity of children by the age of 16.
The court also directed the Excise Commissioner to submit details of measures taken to implement the provisions of the Kerala Abkari Act. It sought suggestions on strengthening enforcement to ensure public safety and prevent violations of liquor laws.
The matter will be heard next on November 24.
The court’s observation is a suggestion to the legislature, not a change in the existing law. Under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, a child is generally defined as a person below 18 years of age. The law already allows children aged 16-18 accused of heinous offences to undergo a preliminary assessment for possible trial as adults in certain circumstances.
