WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?
A decade of work with young offenders and our conversations with policymakers have revealed that the current system of rehabilitation is not working effectively. In the last few years, the Juvenile Justice Act has seen tremendous changes due to the public pressure surrounding it. The recent amendments in the Act now which make it possible for a juvenile to be tried as an adult. However, acknowledging the difficult circumstances which lead a child towards delinquency, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act of 2015 proposes positive measures for the rehabilitation and empowerment of the child. We see ourselves as a part of this intent, trying to fill the gaps between policy and implementation, addressing the needs of children kept under observation.
An empathetic approach that goes beyond headlines, stats and figures, and views young offenders first and foremost as children.
HOW WE WORK
With a strong research bend, our current project is a step to concretise our work over the last decade.
It brings together the best of drama, creative dance movement, art, and music therapy to create a comprehensive long-term program for young offenders.
There is ample data to show that the Arts can have a positive impact on both, mental and social health. Unfortunately, not much has happened in India in this regard. Not only do we aim to work with young adults, but also build frameworks to successfully apply arts-based practices for self and social transformation. Based on the results of our study, we can also push for regularisation of such programs across all childcare facilities in India.