NCJ Number
79955
Date Published
1979
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This analysis of juvenile delinquency in Karnataka, India, examines causal factors, statistical data collected between 1961 and 1977, delinquencies in other states and urban areas, and characteristics of juvenile offenders.
Abstract
Although the textbook approach to juvenile delinquency reveals many causal factors such as family problems, psychological disturbances, and physical ailments, delinquency in a country like India is largely the result of poverty. Rapid industrialization and urbanization have made juvenile delinquency a major problem in capital cities, commercial centers, and towns with major railway stations. Analysis of juvenile delinquency statistics in Karnataka indicates that the general trend since 1961 has been one of gradual increase. The most common juvenile offenses are thefts and burglary, but gambling and sex offenses are also considerable. Comparisons of juvenile crime in India's different states are presented, based on 1973 data. More than 77 percent of the total juvenile cases reported occurred in four states -- Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. In the all-India total, Karnataka's share was 2.6 percent. Also provided is a comparative picture of juvenile delinquency in eight major cities. Characteristics of juveniles apprehended in Karnataka are depicted for selected years between 1961 and 1977 according to sex, age, educational level, family background, and parents' income. Boys constitute more than 50 percent of the total, but the proportion of girls has been increasing steadily. Juveniles in the 16 to 20 years age group predominate. Nearly 90 percent of the juveniles apprehended are illiterate or below the primary educational level, and 80 to 90 percent come from poor families. Recidivism and court dispositions of juvenile cases are discussed. In 1967, the majority of juvenile delinquents were sent to institutions, but in 1974 and 1975 most were restored to their parents. During 1976 and 1977, however, 50 to 70 percent were imprisoned. Tables are included.