Work to enforce Juvenile Justice Act commences

The first meeting of the policy level steering committee to oversee the implementation of the Juvenile Justice Act between all institutions involved has been held.

The meeting held was virtually yesterday. Information regarding the work conducted on during the policy level meeting held on August 9 was also shared during the meeting.

The working group discussed the necessary resources required for the implementation of responsibilities designated for institutions under the law. Difficulties that may be posed in the implementation of the law and how to address these issues were also discussed.

The discussions also focused on aspects that need to be prioritized and the importance of utilizing a multi-stakeholder approach to the enforcement of the law was also discussed. 

Participants during yesterday’s meeting include Attorney General Ibrahim Riffath, Gender Minister Aishath Mohamed Didi, Supreme Court Justice Aisha Shujoon, and President of the Judicial Service Commission Hisaan Hussain. Other participants included Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem, CEO of Local Government Authority Afshan Latheef, and senior officials of the Gender Ministry and Home Ministry.

The Juvenile Justice Act states that designated rehabilitation centers for juveniles are to be established and education for underage offenders are to be carried out at these centers. The rights of the underage offenders if undergoing any sentence must also be fully insured under the act.