Compulsory Legal Education in High School- Step to Prevent Youth Crime and Victimhood

In a society grappling with rising crime rates and a need for greater legal literacy, experts are calling for the inclusion of compulsory basic legal education in high school curricula. Recognizing the profound impact early legal education can have on shaping responsible citizens, proponents argue that equipping young individuals with legal knowledge will not only prevent them from becoming perpetrators of crime but also protect them from becoming victims. A prominent lawyer of the Supreme Court of India, Dr Kislay Panday, a prominent Supreme Court Advocate, supports this initiative, emphasizing the urgent need for legal education at the high school level.

Dr Kislay Panday, renowned lawyer and legal expert, asserts, "By incorporating compulsory basic legal education in high school, we can empower young individuals with essential knowledge about their rights, responsibilities, and the legal system. This will enable them to make informed decisions, avoid illegal activities, and become active contributors to a law-abiding society."

Statistics reveal a concerning trend of increasing involvement of young individuals in criminal activities and their vulnerability as victims. By introducing basic legal education in high schools, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of legal concepts, their rights, and the consequences of unlawful behaviour. This knowledge will not only serve as a deterrent to engaging in criminal acts but also foster a sense of responsibility and ethical conduct among the youth.

Prominent lawyer, Dr Kislay Panday further emphasizes, "Basic legal education will equip young individuals with the necessary tools to identify potential legal issues in their lives and seek appropriate legal recourse. It will also help them understand the importance of personal safety, cybersecurity, and protection from exploitation, thereby reducing their vulnerability to crime."

Integrating legal education into high school curricula will provide students with a solid foundation in legal principles, fostering critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and respect for the rule of law. Additionally, it will nurture a legal mindset that encourages peaceful conflict resolution and promotes social justice.

Supporters of this initiative argue that basic legal education in high school can have far-reaching benefits, including the potential to reduce the burden on the judicial system by promoting a culture of lawfulness and accountability. Moreover, it can create a more informed citizenry that actively participates in civic matters, promotes legal reforms, and upholds justice.

As conversations surrounding the inclusion of compulsory basic legal education gain momentum, educational policymakers, legal experts, and advocacy groups are urging governments to prioritize this crucial aspect of education. The goal is to equip young individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect their rights, and contribute positively to society.

As an experience Supreme Court Lawyer Dr Kislay Panday concludes, "By imparting basic legal education to high school students, we can empower them to become responsible, law-abiding citizens who not only understand their rights but also respect the rights of others. This is a significant step toward building a safer, more just society for future generations."