From Marginalization to Reformation: A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Juvenile Delinquency and Rehabilitative Efficacy in District Jail Lahore

Abstract

This research work highlights the issues of “Juvenile Delinquency” in the criminal justice system of Pakistan. It examines the social, economic and psychological factors that compels minors into criminal activities. Major Key factors of juvenile delinquency that came out after the study interviews of the minors indicate that Poverty, broken family, Domestic Violence, wrong peer group’s influence, vulnerability to different gangs and lack of education are prime contributors to juvenile crimes. This study also sheds light on the role of Pakistan’s Legal Frame work and the working of Criminal Justice System including Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) 1860, Juvenile Justice System Act of 2018 and different Provincial child protections laws dealing with Juvenile offenders. This study also explores the facilities of education, sports, vocational training, healthcare and religious learning available to these minors in the Juvenile ward of District Jail Lahore and what kind of impact these facilities are creating on the minor offenders of jail. The policies and strategies which are addressing these juvenile delinquents confined in different jails of Pakistan need more and effective reforms.