Natural Justice Must Be Observed Before Commission Recommends Criminal Prosecution for Alleged Violations of Child Rights.

The Petitioner-School challenged a notice/recommendation dated 18.07.2024 issued by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).

The NCPCR, purportedly acting under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005, directed the registration of an FIR against the school under Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, for striking off students' names due to non-payment of fees.

The Petitioner contended that the recommendations were made without providing an opportunity for a hearing, violating principles of natural justice and threatening their reputation and rights under Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution.

Section 13(1)(c) and Section 13(1)(j) of the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005, which empowers the Commission to inquire into child rights violations and recommend the initiation of proceedings.

The administrative law principle of Audi Alteram Partem (natural justice), holding that recommendations triggering criminal investigations cause "irreversible reputational harm".

Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, which penalizes the assault or willful neglect of children.

The court reasoned that while the NCPCR has the statutory power to inquire into violations under Section 13(1)(c), it must form a reasoned opinion by hearing all stakeholders before drawing a conclusion.

The court rejected the Respondent’s argument that because the recommendations are "advisory" or "benign," they do not require a prior hearing.

The court observed that a recommendation to register an FIR sets a criminal process in motion, which carries significant legal and reputational consequences for an educational institution.

Since the Commission conceded that the Petitioner was not heard prior to the impugned notice, the court found the process procedurally flawed.

The court held that the NCPCR must extend an opportunity for a hearing to the Petitioner and other relevant stakeholders, including parents if necessary, before making such recommendations.

The court directed that the inquiry must proceed strictly in accordance with the Act of 2005 and allowed parties to be represented by legal counsel.

The writ petition was disposed of with liberty to the Commission to re-examine the matter following due process.