ARNIT DAS vs STATE OF BIHAR

The Supreme Court addressed the determination of a juvenile's age under The Juvenile Justice Act, 1986, specifically whether the age should be assessed as of the date of the offence or the date of appearance before the competent authority. The Court held that the age of the juvenile must be determined as of the date of the offence, thereby establishing a legal principle that aligns with the protective intent of the Act. The findings of the lower courts regarding the petitioner's age were set aside, allowing for a reconsideration of the juvenile status based on the correct date.