CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM: A CRIMINOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

AUTHOR – JOMLO LEGO, PH.D. RESEARCH SCHOLAR AT DEPARTMENT OF LAW, MANIPUR INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, IMPHAL, MANIPUR

BEST CITATION – JOMLO LEGO,CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM: A CRIMINOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (8) OF 2026, PG. 91-98, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.

Abstract

The criminal justice system remains a cornerstone of societal order, yet it faces persistent structural and functional challenges across jurisdictions. This paper provides a comprehensive criminological analysis of these issues, focusing on judicial delays, prison overcrowding, systemic inequality, and inadequate rehabilitation mechanisms. By applying classical, positivist, conflict, and restorative justice theories, the study examines the root causes of inefficiencies within the system. Comparative insights from progressive justice models highlight the effectiveness of reform-oriented approaches. The paper proposes a multi-dimensional reform framework incorporating legal restructuring, technological innovation, restorative justice practices, and community participation. It argues that sustainable reform requires a paradigm shift from punitive justice to rehabilitative and restorative models, ensuring both accountability and reintegration.

Keywords: Criminal Justice Reform, Criminology, Restorative Justice, Judicia, Prison