Establish more juvenile justice courts, HC tells State

Mumbai, Oct 12 (UNI) The Bombay High Court, in a suo moto petition, directed that more juvenile justice courts be set up across the State, and particularly one in suburban Mumbai.

A division bench, comprising justices J N Patel and R S Dalvi, gave the directions after hearing suggestions from amicus curiae Adv Maharuk Adenwala.

Adv Adenwala submitted thirteen points for consideration by the State to improve the condition of juvenile observation homes, mentally deficient children's homes, and remand and shelter homes.

She has suggested that vacancies of trained and qualified personnel in institutions managed by the Children's Aid Society in Mumbai be filled up within a month.

Special posts be sanctioned for child psychologists and counsellors in State-run child-care institutions, while two psychologists and a therapist each be appointed for mentally deficient children's homes, she has suggested. Starting of short-term vocational courses in observation homes and children's participation in the management of the State-run homes, are some other suggestions put forth by her. She has further pointed out that such children are most often deprived of legal assistance and, so, a lawyer too should be appointed to represent the juveniles.

Adv Adenwala has also suggested that District Legal Services Authorities should appoint Duty Counsels for observation homes who should submit reports to the High Court so that appropriate action can be taken to improve the condition in these homes.

Adv Adenwala said at least two protection homes should be established under Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act for the victims rescued from brothels.

It was further suggested that the State Government should increase the grant to shelter homes from the present Rs 750 per child to Rs 950. Likewise, the grant to mentally deficient children's homes be raised from Rs 950 to Rs 1140.

Meanwhile, chief public prosecutor Satish Borulkar told the court that the State has received a grant from the Centre for establishing a rescue home for minor girls in Mumbai. While 23 such homes are run by the State, there is just one in Mumbai, at Deonar, apart from one run by an NGO in Kandivli.

The State has been directed to file its reply to Adv Adenwala's suggestions by October 17. The case will come up for further hearing on October 19.

UNI ARM MAZ SHB ND2144