Court Upholds Juvenile Rights in Employment Case

Background

In a significant ruling, the Tribunal presided over by Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ranjit More quashed the cancellation of candidature for the post of Constable (Exe.) for several applicants, including Vikash , Kuldeep , and Hanuman Singh Sekhawat. The applicants had their candidacies canceled based on their past juvenile criminal records, which they argued were protected under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000 and its 2015 amendment.

Arguments

The applicants contended that their past involvement in criminal cases as juveniles should not disqualify them from government employment. They argued that the cancellation of their candidacies violated the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act, which states that juveniles should not suffer disqualifications based on their past offenses. The respondents, on the other hand, maintained that the nature of the duties required for a Constable necessitated a thorough examination of a candidate's character, and that the Standing Order No. 398/2018 justified their actions.

Court's Analysis and Reasoning

The court analyzed the arguments presented by both sides, emphasizing the protective measures afforded to juveniles under the Juvenile Justice Act. It highlighted that the Standing Order, which allowed for the consideration of juvenile offenses in assessing suitability, was contrary to the legislative intent of the Act. The court noted that the applicants had been acquitted of the charges and that using their juvenile records against them was arbitrary and illegal.

Decision

The Tribunal ultimately ruled in favor of the applicants, quashing the show cause notices and the order that canceled their candidacies. It directed the respondents to appoint the applicants as Constables, provided they met other criteria, and mandated that this process be completed within eight weeks. This decision reinforces the principle that juveniles should not be penalized for past offenses, promoting their reintegration into society without stigma.

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Case Title: Hanuman Singh Shekhawat vs Govt. Of Nctd - 2024 Supreme(Online)(CAT) 4203