J&K govt tweaks juvenile justice rules

Srinagar, Sep 26: In a significant move, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has introduced key changes to the Jammu and Kashmir Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Rules to ensure accountability for misconduct by members of Juvenile Justice Boards as well as the chairpersons and members of Child Welfare Committees.
As per the amendments, the Department of Social Welfare has mandated that any complaint against a Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) member will be subject to a government inquiry.
“If any complaint is made against a member of the Board, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir shall hold necessary inquiry except in respect of judicial officers; complaints against judicial officers shall be forwarded to the Registrar of the High Court for action,” the Rules state.
The Rules further specify that such inquiries must be completed within two months, with appropriate action taken within one month thereafter.
It has also been notified that a JJB member can be suspended if a criminal case is registered against them.
“If a criminal case is registered against the member concerned, if necessary the Government of Jammu and Kashmir may suspend the member immediately pending inquiry, for such term as appropriate; or after holding an inquiry and giving an opportunity of being heard in the matter,” the Rules add.
The amendments also bar individuals associated with organizations receiving foreign contributions from being appointed as Chairperson or member of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
Similarly, those working in NGOs or organizations implementing the Act, where a conflict of interest may arise, are also ineligible for appointment.
According to Rules, in case of complaints against a CWC Chairperson or member, the Government must hold an inquiry and may suspend the person immediately, pending investigation.
“The inquiry shall be completed within a period of two months and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir may take appropriate action within one month of completion of the inquiry,” the Rules note. (KNO)