Mumbai, June 30: The Maharashtra government is preparing to send a proposal to the central government, requesting to lower the age limit for juvenile offenders from 18 to 16 years. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced this information in the assembly on Tuesday.
He stated that necessary legal amendments will be made to ensure strict action against those who exploit children for criminal activities and drug distribution.
Legislator Arjun Khotkar raised concerns about the rising trend of juvenile crimes in Jalna district. Member Sudhir Mungantiwar also participated in the discussion by asking a supplementary question. In response, CM Fadnavis clarified that a recent incident in Latur was a private matter stemming from a family dispute. He mentioned that an investigation is ongoing, and those minors found involved will be presented before the Juvenile Justice Board.
The Chief Minister noted that some criminal elements are taking advantage of legal provisions that allow minors to be placed in observation homes rather than being arrested. It has been observed that such individuals use minors to commit crimes.
Additionally, incidents of serious offenses committed by children under the age of 16 are on the rise. In light of this, a high-level committee will be formed to conduct a scientific analysis of the increasing trend of juvenile crimes.
He indicated that the government is considering implementing strict provisions related to organized crime against gangs and individuals who exploit children, aiming to make relevant laws more effective.
In response to a supplementary question, State Minister Yogesh Kadam stated that various prevention and rehabilitation measures are being implemented statewide to curb juvenile crimes.
The police regularly conduct awareness campaigns on cyber safety and drug de-addiction for students, parents, and teachers in schools and colleges. Regular patrols and preventive measures are also being undertaken in sensitive areas.
Minister Kadam mentioned that special juvenile police units have been established in all police wings under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
Through these units, the CARE (Counseling and Reformative Education) program is being implemented to reintegrate juveniles into mainstream society.
Special emphasis is also being placed on the safety, education, counseling, personality development, and rehabilitation of such children in observation homes. Meanwhile, Minister Uday Samant informed the Legislative Council during question hour that the state government is in continuous discussions with the central government regarding the stalled funds for the ‘Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana’ aimed at poor, homeless, and needy families in urban areas.
Once the funds are received from the center, steps will be taken to release the state government’s share. This issue was raised by member Hemant Patil, with members Praveen Darekar and Abhijit Wanjari asking related questions.
Minister Samant assured that this scheme was initiated in cities with populations exceeding one lakh, with a funding ratio of 60:40 between the central and state governments. Approximately ₹780 million in funds from the center are still pending. He assured that the state government is in constant contact with the central government to secure this amount.
He also clarified that since this is a central scheme and not specific to any state, the funding shortfall is solely due to the lack of funds from the center. In this context, a new demand will be presented to the central government.
Minister Samant also stated that the government will technically investigate whether the state’s 40% share can be released before receiving the 60% share from the center.
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