ECHO operates within the framework of the Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection of Children) Act 2000, a critical piece of legislation designed to ensure the safety, protection, and rehabilitation of children in conflict with the law. Through this framework, ECHO focuses on key areas that aim to empower children and provide them with the tools they need to lead fulfilling, crime-free lives.

ECHO is committed to ensuring that children in conflict with the law are treated fairly and justly. This includes providing comprehensive legal aid, legal representation, and ongoing support to ensure that their rights are protected throughout legal proceedings. ECHO’s legal experts work tirelessly to ensure that children are not subjected to harsh punishments, offering a voice to those who might otherwise be ignored or misunderstood.

ECHO’s legal advocacy goes beyond just courtroom representation. It involves closely monitoring the entire legal process, ensuring that children receive fair trials, appropriate sentencing, and access to rehabilitation programs. The organisation also helps to guide children and their families through the legal complexities, making sure they understand their rights and options.

ECHO focuses on transforming the lives of children in conflict with the law by offering them opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Through the establishment of transitional homes, children receive a safe environment where they can heal, learn, and grow. ECHO also provides vocational training, education, and job placement assistance, giving children the skills they need to reintegrate into society and lead productive lives.

The transitional homes are more than just shelters; they are places where children can receive tailored support, including psychological care, mentorship, and life skills training. ECHO also works with local businesses and organisations to offer internships and job placements, ensuring that children have real-world opportunities to build a sustainable future.

ECHO believes in strengthening child protection systems at the national and state levels. By collaborating with government agencies, NGOs, the police, and courts, ECHO works to create and reinforce policies that better protect children from harm. These partnerships help ensure that children’s rights are upheld, and that there are clear pathways to support children who are vulnerable or in conflict with the law.

ECHO actively participates in policy dialogues and contributes to lawmaking efforts that impact juvenile justice. Through strategic collaborations, the organisation ensures that child protection policies are not just theoretical but are actively implemented and monitored across India. By fostering these partnerships, ECHO plays a key role in creating a more just and supportive environment for children in need.

Training and capacity building are essential to the success of any juvenile justice system. ECHO conducts regular training sessions for police officers, magistrates, and government officials, educating them on the best practices for working with children in conflict with the law. These efforts are aimed at improving the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of those who are directly involved in the juvenile justice system, ensuring that children are treated with dignity and respect.

Through capacity-building programs, ECHO provides valuable insights into child psychology, juvenile justice procedures, and the importance of rehabilitation. These trainings help ensure that professionals working with vulnerable children understand the nuances of child development and the potential long-term effects of trauma. By equipping these key stakeholders with the right tools and knowledge, ECHO ensures that children receive the care and support they need at every stage of the justice process.