Rise of Violent Crimes by Juveniles: A Critical Concern in India

Strategic Insights -

Juvenile delinquency has taken a disturbing turn in India, with a significant increase in violent crimes committed by youngsters. Delhi, a usually calm and peaceful city, has witnessed a string of heinous murders perpetrated by teenagers, often with motives that seem trivial or even laughable. From stabbing a classmate 50 times to dancing over his dead body, to shooting a medical practitioner over a petty medical bill, these crimes have left the nation shocked and dismayed. Experts point to a combination of factors, including a lack of communication skills, parental neglect, and the extensive use of social media, as contributing to this disturbing trend.

Key Takeaways:

  • Delhi reports three to four heinous murders committed by juveniles every month, with some of these crimes being extremely troubling.
  • In 2022, 49.5% of juveniles apprehended were caught for committing violent crimes, a significant increase from 32.5% in 2016.
  • Madhya Pradesh tops the list of violent crimes by juveniles, followed by Maharashtra, and Delhi accounts for almost seven percent of all violent crimes by juveniles.
  • Offences such as rash driving, causing death by negligence, forgery, cheating, trespassing, fraud, pickpocketing, thefts, and obscene acts in public places are also on the rise.
  • The amendment of the JJCPC Act 2015, which allows 16-18-year-olds who commit heinous crimes to be tried as adults, has not acted as a deterrent.
  • Several psychiatrists believe that many of these youngsters are in "need of instant gratification, and if this gratification is denied to them, they cannot deal with this dissonance, and so some of them opt for violent behaviour."
  • Parents are blamed for living in a virtual world, unable to devote enough time to their children, who turn to their peers and friends for emotional support.
  • Criminals are also known to recruit juveniles to carry out killings or extortion for them because of the latitude in the law.
  • Post Covid, child stress has increased exponentially, and false messaging over social media amplifies a sense of anxiety in children.

Statistics:

  • 32.5% of juveniles apprehended in 2016 were caught for committing violent crimes.
  • In 2022, this figure shot up to 49.5%.
  • Delhi accounts for almost seven percent of all violent crimes by juveniles.
  • Madhya Pradesh tops the list of violent crimes by juveniles.
  • Offences such as rash driving, causing death by negligence, forgery, cheating, trespassing, fraud, pickpocketing, thefts, and obscene acts in public places are also on the rise.

Sources:

  • Indian National Press (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd.
  • Contify.com