India, Nov. 14 -- The Kerala High Court has observed that legislatures should consider amending laws governing juveniles and children in conflict with the law to lower the age limit to 16 years, noting that children today show sufficient maturity by that age.

Justice A. Badharudeen made the observation on Friday, November 13, while admitting a criminal writ petition filed by 46-year-old Kollam resident and journalist Vinod Vikraman Pillai. In his order, the judge stated that it is high time lawmakers review juvenile statutes alongside addressing public safety concerns linked to underage drinking.

The petition (Vinod Vikraman Pillai v. State of Kerala & Ors.) challenges the alleged failure of state authorities to enforce Sections 15A and...