Pune: In response to the growing involvement of minors in criminal activities across Pune and Baramati, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has proposed lowering the legal age definition for minors.
He suggests that the age of minors be reduced to 14 years for boys and 12 years for girls, a move that will be discussed with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, as well as with the central government.
Speaking at a press conference in Baramati, Pawar expressed deep concern over recent incidents involving minors. "The increasing participation of minors in crimes is a worrying trend," he said, citing multiple cases in the region as examples.
"Considering the gravity of the situation, we may need to make legal amendments to lower the age limits for defining minors."
The current legal framework often shields minors from severe legal consequences, even in cases of serious offenses, due to their age. Pawar emphasized that this loophole needs to be addressed urgently, as the rising trend of juvenile involvement in crime is becoming a societal issue.
Pawar also mentioned that any change in the legal age definition will require consultation with the central government. He plans to discuss the matter with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in upcoming talks. "It's time we take concrete steps to remove these legal limitations," he added.
The move, if enacted, would represent a significant shift in how the legal system treats minors, and aims to curb the growing criminal participation of juveniles in Maharashtra.
