Juvenile Offenders And Fatal Road Accidents In India: Reforming The Legal Approach To Rash And Drunken Driving
- IJLLR Journal
- Mar 16
- 2 min read
Adv. Nidhi Meshram, Yashwant Mahavidyalaya Higher Learning Research Centre, Wardha
Prof. Dr. Shipra Singam, Yashwant Mahavidyalaya Higher Learning Research Centre, Wardha
ABSTRACT
Road traffic accidents are a major cause of death and injury in India, particularly involving juveniles in cases of rash and drunken driving. This research paper explores the legal framework surrounding juvenile offenders in fatal accidents under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, alongside relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code. It critiques the current legal system, identifies shortcomings in addressing juvenile-caused fatalities, and suggests reforms to balance rehabilitation of minors with justice for victims.
INTRODUCTION
Road safety in India has become a pressing public policy concern, exacerbated by rapid urbanization, rising vehicle ownership, and insufficient enforcement of traffic laws, leading to a significant increase in road accidents. Government statistics reveal that thousands die annually in these incidents. A concerning trend is the participation of juveniles in road accidents, which often involve reckless behaviors such as rash driving, overspeeding, and driving under the influence. Instances of minors illegally operating vehicles and causing fatal accidents raise complex legal and ethical dilemmas regarding the adequacy of criminal liability for juvenile offenders. The Indian legal framework adopts a reformative stance under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures for juvenile offenders. Nonetheless, when juvenile actions result in fatalities, there is societal pressure for increased accountability. This research paper delves into the legal challenges surrounding juvenile offenders in fatal road accidents, assessing whether the existing legal structure effectively addresses these cases and if reforms are necessary to balance justice for victims with the rehabilitative goals of the juvenile justice system.
