We're alarmed by the news of a fierce street brawl between two Narayanganj-based teen gangs that created panic among residents on Monday. According to a report, over 50 violent delinquents attacked each other with sharp weapons at the district's Masdair area, while destroying many shops and houses, apparently as part of a turf war to establish their dominance over the locality. In recent times, we have come across similar reports from Narayanganj several times. On July 28, a young man was stabbed to death by members of a rival gang in the Siddhirganj area. The Masdair incident only shows how local leaders and law enforcers have failed to bring these gangs under control.

Youth crime rates are clearly rising. The situation is particularly dire in Dhaka, where around 50 teen gangs are said to be active, their members typically aged between 14 and 19 years. Teen gangs are often patronised by local political leaders.

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This is increasingly becoming a problem in many parts of the country as well. Youth crime rates are clearly rising. The situation is particularly dire in Dhaka, where around 50 teen gangs are said to be active, their members typically aged between 14 and 19 years. Teen gangs are often patronised by local political leaders. Often, they are seen roaming the streets with blunt instruments, or taking drugs or tormenting young girls on the streets. Even crimes of rape by teenagers have been reported by the media in recent months. These gang members chase down anyone from rival groups walking on "their" streets, even in broad daylight, and any kind of resistance can lead to scuffles. All this is very alarming, to say the least, both for the future of young people and society at large.

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Should child age limit be lowered to try juvenile crimes?

Experts believe that the role of family in keeping a check on juvenile boys is vital. Families should keep track of the whereabouts of their sons, and counsel them if they notice any worrying deviation. As laws and regulations on the trial of juvenile offenders below 18 years lack clarity in Bangladesh, these need to be updated so we can better respond to the growing threat of youth crime and violence. Reportedly, the government is contemplating amending the Children Act, especially considering that in almost all cases of violence, the age of delinquents becomes an obstacle to any criminal trial at court. It is also easy to manipulate papers to show a young criminal to be below 18 years.

Given the reality, the authorities must respond properly to the situation. We need effective laws that can address juvenile crimes, but we also need laws to be mindful of the welfare and future of teenagers. But law alone cannot address the threat. All responsible, including families and social and political leaders, must do their part as well.