Meaningful Legal Discussion Held at Pacific Law College
Udaipur, July 16: Pacific School of Law, Pacific University, organised a group discussion on the topic, “Should juveniles accused of heinous crimes be tried as adults?” Faculty members of the law school presented arguments both in favour of and against the issue during the discussion.
Addressing the gathering, Dean In-Charge Anurag Mehta said that a sensitive issue such as juvenile crime cannot be viewed only from an emotional perspective. He stressed the need to equally understand legal, psychological and social aspects while maintaining a balance between justice and humanity.
Experts Present Diverse Perspectives
Manoj Joshi said that timely justice for victims of heinous crimes is extremely important. He noted that the purpose of law is not only to punish offenders but also to maintain public confidence in the legal system.
Manju Kumawat said that juveniles are still undergoing mental and emotional development, and therefore a reformative and rehabilitation-based approach should be adopted in their cases.
Pooja Sisodiya highlighted the important role of families, schools and society in preventing juvenile crime. She said that many crimes can be prevented through timely guidance and moral education.
Dhruval Shah stated that if a juvenile commits a serious and heinous crime, each case should be assessed on the basis of mental maturity, the nature of the offence and surrounding circumstances.
During the discussion, participants also presented a comparative review of juvenile justice systems in India, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Australia.
Emphasis on Awareness, Counselling and Legal Education
Bhanupriya Kumawat stressed the need for regular psychological support and counselling in schools, stating that greater attention to mental health has become essential.
Kripa Jain said that every citizen should have knowledge of the law and that respect for legal provisions should be encouraged across society.
According to Parveen Kausar, the objective of the justice system is not only to punish offenders but also to reform them and reintegrate them into society.
Nishit Gokhru said that the rights of victims and the delivery of justice should remain the highest priority in cases involving heinous crimes.
Chirag Bhatnagar observed that along with strict laws, legal awareness, moral values and social responsibility must also be promoted. He said that families, schools and society should work together to develop discipline, sensitivity, moral values and a sense of social responsibility among children.
The discussion concluded with a recommendation that one of the most effective ways to prevent crime is to introduce legal education at the school level. Participants said students should be made aware of laws, rights and responsibilities from an early age so that they learn to respect the law and avoid moving towards criminal activities.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
