Major Crackdown on Juvenile Gangs in Central Delhi
In a significant police operation targeting juvenile crime in Central Delhi, authorities have apprehended 105 minors since June 2025 as part of a specialized crackdown on organized gang activities. The initiative was launched after police noticed a disturbing pattern of crimes involving underage offenders in the Anand Parbat and Patel Nagar areas.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sunil Kumar from Patel Nagar, the police began analyzing crime patterns in June following a noticeable rise in offenses committed by juveniles. "Mostly it was quarrels, knife attacks and random fights that the juveniles were involved in," Kumar explained, highlighting the nature of crimes that prompted the investigation.
Four Major Gangs Identified
Through detailed background checks and pattern analysis, police uncovered the operations of four prominent gangs operating in the two Central Delhi localities. The identified groups include the MJ gang, 78, Sarkar, and Bhagat Singh gang, with most members aged between 13 and 17 years old.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Nidhin Valsan provided crucial statistics from the ongoing operation: "Since June, 105 juveniles have been apprehended. Three individuals who had been involved in criminal activities since they were minors and continued it even after turning 18 have been externed as a preventive measure."
The police have implemented a systematic tracking mechanism for habitual juvenile offenders, opening approximately 66 'pink files' to monitor their activities and patterns since the operation began in June.
Rehabilitation and Prevention Strategy
Beyond enforcement, Delhi Police has emphasized a comprehensive approach combining prevention with rehabilitation. Out of 51 juveniles identified as active gang members, 31 have been sent to observation homes while others are undergoing counseling and rehabilitation programs.
ACP Sunil Kumar detailed the holistic strategy: "After scrutinising those involved, we dug deeper to check their family background as well. This only helped us understand why they were engaging in crime. Even parents were counselled and plans were made to fruitfully engage them in better activities."
The rehabilitation efforts include innovative approaches such as involving the juveniles in sports activities and organizing inter-gang matches to channel their energy positively. Police have also worked to create job opportunities for parents to stabilize family incomes and create better home environments.
According to official data from Central District Police, the focused intervention appears to be yielding results. In 2024, between January and October, 62 PCR calls were recorded for juvenile crimes in Anand Parbat and Patel Nagar, with 12 FIRs for attempt to murder registered. However, in 2025 during the same period, PCR calls related to juvenile crimes dropped to 33, though attempt to murder FIRs slightly increased to 15.
Police officials confirmed that professional counseling and rehabilitation programs are being implemented alongside regular follow-up and mentorship to ensure long-term positive outcomes for the involved juveniles.
