Jammu: A shocking development has emerged in the investigation of the juvenile home in R.S. Pura, raising serious concerns about administrative negligence and violations of correctional norms.
According to sources, out of 26 inmates lodged at the facility, nearly 13 have already attained legal adulthood. Despite crossing the age of 18, they were allegedly still being housed with minor detainees. Under established legal provisions, once an inmate turns 18, their case must be reviewed and they should be transferred to an adult prison or a designated special facility. The failure to do so has triggered serious questions about procedural lapses.
The issue gained prominence after a violent incident occurred at the juvenile home on Monday. The three accused involved in the incident—two Pakistani nationals and one local resident—were adults. Despite facing serious charges, they were reportedly living in the same premises as juveniles booked for minor offenses.
Correctional laws and rehabilitation policies mandate that juveniles be segregated based on age and the gravity of their alleged offenses to ensure proper reform and rehabilitation. However, the presence of adults and individuals accused of heinous crimes among minor offenders has cast serious doubts on the integrity of the reform system.
Sources further revealed that staff members at the facility had already submitted written communication to senior authorities, informing them that several inmates had turned adults and required immediate transfer.
Not Just an Oversight, But Serious Negligence
Despite prior warnings, no concrete action was reportedly taken. If confirmed, the matter may not be treated as a mere oversight but as a case of grave administrative negligence.
Notably, a separate safety center has already been established in the Domana area of Jammu to house juveniles involved in serious crimes. In this context, it raises a critical question: why were juveniles accused of minor offenses such as theft or minor scuffles kept alongside individuals facing charges of firing, murder, and other heinous crimes?
The revelations have intensified scrutiny over the functioning of the juvenile correctional system and may prompt a broader administrative and legal review.
