Gujarat is facing growing concern over a noticeable surge in offences involving minors, with official records showing that juvenile-related crimes crossed the 1,700 mark in the past year alone.
According to data accessed from law enforcement agencies, nearly 2,011 children below the age of 18 were taken into custody in connection with 1,711 criminal cases across the state. Of these, 1,993 were boys and 18 were girls, translating into an average of around 18 juveniles coming in conflict with the law every single day.
According to media reports, as per Indian legal provisions, any crime committed by an individual under 18 years of age falls under juvenile offences. Such cases are handled through reform-oriented mechanisms aimed at correction and rehabilitation, rather than strict punishment.
Media reports quoted officials noting that while juvenile crime earlier largely involved offences such as theft, physical assault and, in extreme cases, serious crimes like rape or murder, the pattern has evolved significantly. Recent years have seen a steady rise in cases linked to financial motives, cyber harassment through social media platforms, obsessive or one-sided relationships, and activities associated with alcohol, drugs, smoking and other forms of addiction, media reports added.
Social experts and child welfare authorities believe that increasing digital dependence is a major driver behind this trend. Children and teenagers, particularly those between 15 and 18 years, are spending more time online, often becoming socially withdrawn. Exposure to curated online lifestyles has led many adolescents to chase status symbols, instant gratification, money and online popularity, officials said.
The ripple effect is being felt within families as well. Parents frequently report behavioural changes, conflicts at home and difficulties in managing their children’s use of technology and money. Factors such as emotional neglect, excessive screen time, family disputes, broken homes and the pressure to gain social media recognition are emerging as significant contributors to juvenile delinquency in today’s environment.
To counter the growing challenge, Gujarat has established a network of rehabilitation facilities, including 26 observation homes and 107 children’s homes. These institutions focus on guiding children in conflict with the law back onto a constructive path through counselling, formal education and skill-building initiatives.
Authorities and experts alike stress that addressing juvenile crime requires not just legal intervention, but collective efforts from families, schools and society to create a supportive and balanced environment for young people.
Also Read: Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi’s NGO Moves Gujarat HC For Implementation of Juvenile Justice Act https://www.vibesofindia.com/nobel-laureate-kailash-satyarthis-ngo-moves-gujarat-hc-for-implementation-of-juvenile-justice-act/
