When a child in conflict with law in custody crosses the age of 18 years during trial and is declared an adult under Section 18(3) of the JJ Act, which option is available to the trial court?
To allow the child to go home after advice or admonition
To drop the proceedings and release the child from custody forthwith
To direct the child to be released on probation of good conduct
To send the child to a place of safety
Answer and explanation
Section 19(3) of the JJ Act, 2015 provides that the Children's Court shall ensure the child found in conflict with law is sent to a place of safety until they attain 21 years of age, after which the person is transferred to jail. During stay at the place of safety, reformative services including education, skill development, counselling, behaviour modification therapy, and psychiatric support must be provided. Section 19(4) additionally mandates annual follow-up reports by a probation officer or social worker.