Is It Legal For Police To Question A Minor Without A Parent Present?

No, it is illegal for police to question a minor without the presence of a parent, guardian, or a responsible adult.

The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, protects minors' rights during police interrogation. Police must immediately inform parents upon apprehension and conduct questioning only at child-friendly premises to avoid any custodial atmosphere.

The law forbids coercion, force, or the signing of statements by minors. Any statement recorded without parental or guardian presence can be declared inadmissible in court.

Such violations also constitute an abuse of process and breach constitutional rights under Article 21, ensuring protection of life and personal liberty for minors during legal proceedings.