Social Welfare Department

The statutory mechanisms, as per the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000 and Amendment Act 2006, are as follows:

• Child Welfare Committee (CWC)
• Juvenile Justice Board (JJB)
• Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU)

Every district will have a CWC, a JJB, and a SJPU.

1. Child Welfare Committee (CWCs):

There is one Child Welfare Committee notified by the State in all the Districts which consist of Chairperson and four members. The CWC deals with children in need of care and protection below 18 years of age. The Committee have the final authority to dispose of cases for the care, protection, treatment, development and rehabilitation of the children as well as to provide for their basic needs and protection of human rights.

2. Juvenile Justice Board (JJBs):

There is one Juvenile Justice Board notified by the State in all the Districts which consist of a Principle Magistrate and two members. The JJB deals with cases of juveniles in conflict with law below 18 years of age. Children who are in conflict with law are sent to the Observation Home pending inquiry.

3. Special Juvenile Police Units (SJPUs):

There is one Special Juvenile Police Unit notified and set up in all the Districts. This is to coordinate and upgrade the police interface with children. All the Police Officers, designated as juvenile/child welfare officers in the districts are members of SJPU.