Silchar: The Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) in Hailakandi district has ordered that a 16-year-old accused in the alleged rape and murder of a minor schoolgirl on Aug 1 be tried as an adult, marking a significant development in a case that triggered protests across the district.The order was passed by the JJB’s principal magistrate after examining the gravity of the offence, psychological and preliminary assessment reports from Silchar Medical College and Hospital, and a report submitted by the investigating officer.Police said the decision followed a preliminary assessment under the Juvenile Justice Act, which provides for children aged 16 to 18 accused of heinous offences to be considered for trial as adults. The final decision, however, rests with the Children’s Court.The case was registered under Sections 65(1) and 103(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), read with Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act.A special investigation team (SIT) had earlier filed a chargesheet against five accused, including four adults and the juvenile, following an investigation involving forensic evidence, medico-legal reports, digital records, witness statements and seized materials.The chargesheet was filed under Section 193 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Police also invoked Sections 70(2), 332(A) and 3(5) of the BNS during the investigation.According to police, the victim was found in a bloodied condition inside her house on the night of Aug 1 while her family members were away attending a social event. Police launched an investigation after being alerted, and forensic experts collected evidence from the scene.Five people were later arrested. The identity of the juvenile has been withheld as required by law.The incident triggered widespread protests in Hailakandi, with residents demanding stringent punishment for those involved. Several women’s organisations and civil society groups also called for a fair investigation and speedy justice.On Sept 24, the Hailakandi district commissioner visited the bereaved family and assured them of administrative assistance. He also said a recommendation would be sent to the state govt seeking employment assistance for the family.Under the Juvenile Justice Act, the JJB’s preliminary assessment does not determine the juvenile’s guilt. The Children’s Court will examine the case and decide whether the juvenile should be tried as an adult in accordance with the law.
