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Must juveniles be tried and treated as adults in cases of heinous crimes?

Introduction

The subject of whether juveniles should be treated as adults in certain cases remains one of great debate. This is due to the fact that there are several arguments both for and against. We will attempt to shed light on them.

Views for the topic:

When juvenile convicts are let off with slaps on the wrists, it shows them that they are above the legal system. It allows them to think they will be let off easy when they commit future crimes. Juveniles must be treated as equal to adults when they commit heinous crimes because not only will it deter future crimes but it will also keep away potential dangers to the society.

When a criminal is sent away, it is not just to punish the criminal but also to protect society from dangers he/she might cause.

While juvenile’s brains aren’t as well developed as adults, they are taught from a young age about what is right and what is wrong. If they can commit crimes before they’ve even become adults, it is highly probable that the crimes will just increase in number and intensity. 
They might not be as mature but how much legal significance does a lack of maturity by just a year or two play when it comes to most cases? 
Proving hindrance to rationality might be easy but it must be proven to such an extent that it makes it non culpable for their actions.

Views Against:

When a juvenile is treated as an adult, it is done for a wide number of reasons. To send a message and prevent crimes of such nature and giving closure to the affected parties seems to be the most widely used reason. However, they are mainly used to douse public outrage.

Harsh laws and legislation may help as a crude tool to satiate public outrage by political parties and figures but they neither negate nor diminish the problem at hand. All they do is douse the seething public anger and help improve their public image. 

Every child who is in conflict with the law and those in need of help and security should be entitled to the required counseling, care, rehabilitation, and education. It is the State's duty to provide these children the aforementioned necessities.

By Kartik Sanade and Elwin Brian Menezes.