Legally, a 'minor' is an individual who has not yet reached the age of majority, typically set at 18 years old in most legal systems. This age serves as a dividing line between childhood and adulthood, signifying the point at which individuals are considered fully accountable for their actions and are entitled to certain rights and privileges.

In India, a minor's legal standing is regulated by multiple laws, such as the Indian Majority Act, 1875, and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000, which define a minor as an individual under the age of 18. Compared to adults, minors in India have limited legal capacity and may require parental or guardian consent for certain actions.

In the criminal justice system, minors are treated differently from adults. Specialized juvenile courts are responsible for handling cases involving minors accused of committing offences. These courts prioritize rehabilitation over punishment and consider the best interests of the child.

Minors in India have specific rights regarding education, healthcare, and protection from exploitation and abuse. The government has implemented measures to ensure their welfare and safeguard them, such as appointing guardians in cases where parental care is absent.

A minor is deemed both a 'natural person' and a 'legal person' in the eyes of the law. As a natural person, they are a human being with inherent rights and capabilities. However, due to their young age and presumed level of maturity, minors are often granted special legal protections and limitations on their rights.

As a legal person, a minor is recognized by the law as having certain rights and responsibilities, although with some restrictions. According to section 11 of the Indian Contract Act, a minor is unable to form a contract.

This means that if a contract is not legally necessary or not beneficial for the minor, their guardian or manager cannot make the agreement on their behalf. Additionally, minors may require consent or supervision from a parent, guardian, or court-appointed representative for certain legal actions.

In legal terminology, a 'natural person' is used to describe a human individual, rather than a non-human entity like a company, partnership, or other legal organization. This distinction is crucial in legal situations, as it helps determine the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of individuals versus artificial entities.

Natural persons possess the ability to enter into contracts, initiate lawsuits, and be subject to legal action, while artificial entities obtain their legal standing from the laws that establish and regulate them.

The term 'legal person' is utilized in legal terms to refer to an entity that is acknowledged as possessing legal privileges and obligations similar to those of a human being. These entities can consist of both natural persons (individual human beings) and artificial entities such as corporations, partnerships, associations, and certain types of organizations.

Legal persons possess the ability to possess property, enter into agreements, file lawsuits, and be sued in a court of law. This concept permits the recognition of entities other than individual humans as having legal status and rights in accordance with the law.

It is possible for a minor to serve as an agent within the parameters of the law of agency. Additionally, he may be granted the benefits of partnership in accordance with the Partnership Act. He is also entitled to receive his rightful share during the partition of assets. As a minor, he is also entitled to fundamental rights and basic human rights. However, his age may determine the consequences of any offences he may commit.

Despite these privileges, there are certain limitations and restrictions for minors. For instance, they are not permitted to enter into contracts, vote, or legally marry. They are also unable to draft a will. In all legal matters, a minor's actions must be carried out by a natural or legal guardian. While minors do possess property rights, they can only be exercised through the guardian.

Overall, the legal status of a minor involves a delicate balance between acknowledging the individuality and rights of young individuals, while also providing necessary safeguards and guidance to ensure their well-being and protection until they reach the age of majority.

Written By: Md.Imran Wahab, IPS, IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal
Email: [email protected], Ph no: 9836576565