Date:08/09/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/09/08/stories/2007090851160200.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Juvenile delinquents’ identity should be kept secret

Staff Reporter

ADILABAD: Adilabad District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) on Friday asked journalists from electronic and print media to desist from publishing or telecasting anything related to juveniles facing legal inquiry that gave out their identity. Under Section 21(1) of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection Children) Act, any violation would be liable to a fine of Rs. 25,000.

Provision in law

Explaining the provisions at a press conference here, DLSA Secretary R. Pundareekakshudu said that giving out identity of juveniles who were in conflict with law or those who needed care and protection was forbidden except where authorities concerned decided that it would be in the interest of the juvenile in question.

When instances of violation would come to its notice, the DLSA would request Superintendents and Deputy Superintendents of Police concerned to take cognisance of the offence.

Cases would be filed against the violators, Mr. Pundareekakshudu added.