Bail for juvenile offenders can be denied based on concerns about their welfare and risk of reoffending.

O R D E R

Application for regular bail. The petitioner faces allegations of having committed the offence punishable under Section 379 I.P.C. He was arrested on 23.7.2007. He is a juvenile. His application for regular bail was dismissed by the J.J. Board by a detailed order dt. 4.1.2008. The crux of the allegations against the petitioner is that on 5.7.2007 at about 3.30 p.m. the petitioner, who was travelling in a motor cycle, which was being ridden by a friend of his/A2 in the case, snatched the gold chain worn by the victim. The gold chain was sold away later. Investigation was completed. Final report was filed. The J.J. Board considered the question of release of the petitioner on bail, but after considering all the relevant circumstances, to which the Board has made detailed reference, came to the conclusion that if the petitioner were released on bail, he will go back into the hands of miscreants thereby jeopardising his own interest and well being. Accordingly the J.J. Board came to the conclusion that the petitioner does not deserve to be enlarged on bail.

2. Report of the learned Magistrate was called for. In the report the learned Magistrate submits that the matter stands posted for trial to 14.3.2008. Altogether there are eight witnesses in the case. The Principal Magistrate has requested for time till 25.4.2008 to finally dispose of the case against the petitioner.

3. Having considered all the relevant circumstances, I am in agreement with the conclusion of the J.J. Board that the petitioner does not deserve to be enlarged on bail. However, I am satisfied that the J.J. Board can be directed to complete the proceedings against the petitioner as expeditiously as possible, at any rate, prior to 25.4.2008, as undertaken by the J.J. Board. The Board shall report compliance to this Court.

4. This application is accordingly dismissed.

(R. BASANT)

tm Judge R. BASANT, J.

B.A.No. 1037 of 2008 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Dated this the 27th day of February, 2008

O R D E R

Heard both sides. I feel it necessary to immediately call for a report from the J.J. Board about the stage of the proceedings in C.C. 44 of 2007. I need only mention that I expect the J.J. Board to expeditiously complete the proceedings and dispose of the same finally. The J.J. Board/Principal Magistrate must report to this Court the time that will be taken for disposal of the case by the J.J. Board. Await report of the J.J. Board. Call on 10.3.2008. The Registry shall ensure that the report is received before that date.

(R. BASANT)

Judge tm