DNLU Inaugurated Centre For Juvenile Rights

The inaugural ceremony of the Centre for Juvenile Rights (JURIC) was held on 21^st June 2025 marking a step toward advancing the cause of child protection and juvenile justice in India. The Centre has been established following a resolution passed by the Juvenile Justice Committee, under the esteemed chairmanship of Justice Anand Pathak, whose vision and leadership made this initiative possible. The inaugural ceremony was conducted under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Sinha, Vice Chancellor and Dr. Praveen Tripathi, Registrar by the Centre Director Shri Shashank Pathak.

Justice Anand Pathak wa the Chief Guest and delivered the keynote address. He emphasized the critical need for sensitivity and empathy in the judicial approach while adjudicating matters involving juveniles. In his address, Justice Pathak also highlighted innovative practices such as the concept of "Shaurya Didi", a grassroot initiative empowering woman as protectors and mentors for children in vulnerable communities. His Lordship underlined the importance of involving society at large in juvenile welfare and protection.

Another key area discussed was the role of social audits in ensuring transparency, accountability, and quality in childcare institutions and juvenile homes. Justice Pathak emphasized that continuous monitoring through social audits is essential to uphold the rights and dignity of every child under institutional care.

The newly established Centre for Juvenile Rights aims to serve as a hub for research, training, policy formulation, and advocacy on child rights and juvenile justice. It will work in collaboration with various stakeholders including the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, child rights organizations, and academic institutions.

The event was attended by Harsh Singh Bahrawat, Registrar (Administration), Anil Kumar Sharma, Registrar (J- I), child welfare experts, social activists, academicians, and students, all united in their commitment to a more just and empathetic juvenile justice system.