RESTORING JUSTICE THROUGH COMMUNITY SERVICE UNDER CRIMINAL LAWS: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INDIA AND SOUTH AFRICA

RESTORING JUSTICE THROUGH COMMUNITY SERVICE UNDER CRIMINAL LAWS: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INDIA AND SOUTH AFRICA Arya Raj, 3rd Year B.A. LLB Student at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) (India) Download Manuscript doi.org/10.70183/lijdlr.2026.v04.52 This doctrinal research paper undertakes a comparative analysis of community service as a restorative sentencing mechanism in the criminal justice systems of This doctrinal research paper undertakes a comparative analysis of community service as a restorative sentencing mechanism in the criminal justice systems of India and South Africa. The study examines the legal foundations, institutional frameworks, and practical implementation of community service as a non-custodial sanction designed to reconcile punitive justice with rehabilitative and restorative objectives. Using a doctrinal research methodology, the paper analyses constitutional provisions, statutory frameworks, and judicial decisions from both jurisdictions, along with relevant academic literature and policy reports.