In a significant move to strengthen the juvenile justice system in the state, the Himachal Pradesh government has appointed a retired high court judge to a key oversight role. The appointment aims to ensure robust selection processes for bodies that protect children's rights and welfare.
Key Appointment Under Juvenile Justice Rules
The state's Department of Social Justice and Empowerment issued a formal notification appointing Justice Surinder Singh Thakur (retired) as the Chairperson of the State Selection Committee. This crucial appointment has been made under the authority of Rule 87(i) of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Model Rules, 2016.
According to the official order, Justice Thakur's tenure will span a period of three years. The State Selection Committee plays a pivotal role in the constitution of vital child protection institutions across every district in Himachal Pradesh.
Role and Responsibilities of the Committee
The committee chaired by Justice Thakur holds substantial responsibility. It is tasked with recommending appointments for two critical sets of positions:
- The Chairperson and members of the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) in every district.
- The Chairperson and members of the Child Welfare Committees (CWC) in every district.
These district-level bodies are the frontline institutions implementing the Juvenile Justice Act, making the selection committee's role foundational to the system's effectiveness.
Distinguished Legal Career of the New Chairperson
Justice Surinder Singh Thakur brings a wealth of judicial experience to this sensitive role. His distinguished career includes:
He was elevated as a Judge of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on November 27, 2006. After serving on the bench, he retired on September 23, 2013.
Following his retirement from the high court, Justice Thakur continued to serve the judiciary. He took on the role of a Judicial Member at the Armed Forces Tribunal, Chandigarh Regional Bench located in Chandimandir. This experience in a specialized tribunal adds to his diverse legal expertise.
The appointment of such an experienced legal mind is seen as a step towards ensuring impartial and merit-based selections for the juvenile justice bodies, ultimately aiming to enhance the care and protection framework for children in Himachal Pradesh.
