HARI RAM vs STATE OF RAJASTHAN

The Supreme Court addressed the interpretation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000, emphasizing its rehabilitative purpose distinct from adult criminal law. The Court held that the determination of a juvenile's age must consider both documentary evidence and medical assessments, and in this case, the High Court's conclusion that the appellant was above 16 years at the time of the offence was upheld. Consequently, the appeal against the High Court's order was dismissed, affirming that the appellant was not entitled to the protections under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2000.