LBA forms body to oversee juvenile act implementation

LAHORE:In a significant move to address the lack of implementation of the Juvenile Justice System Act (JJSA) 2018, the Lahore Bar Association (LBA) has announced the formation of a committee to monitor the issue. Sarmad Ali, Director of Legal Awareness Watch, has been appointed as the committee’s chairperson. The JJSA 2018, which was enacted to ensure the protection of children in conflict with the law, remains largely unenforced across Pakistan. The legislation outlines a comprehensive framework for the rehabilitation and rights of juvenile offenders. However, gaps in enforcement have raised serious concerns about the safeguarding of children's best interests.

Talking to The News, Sarmad Ali said the LBA’s newly formed committee aims to push for the proper enforcement of the Act, ensuring that children in conflict with the law are treated in accordance with their rights and developmental needs, as stipulated by the law. Legal and child rights experts have lauded the initiative, urging stakeholders to work collaboratively to overcome systemic barriers to justice for juveniles.