Explanation:

- According to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, where there is no Juvenile Court for any area, the powers can be exercised by any Metropolitan Magistrate or Judicial Magistrate of the first class.

- The District Magistrate and Sub-divisional Magistrate do not get this specific power under the Act.

- The main aim is to ensure cases involving juveniles are not delayed due to the absence of a special Juvenile Court.

- These provisions make sure that judicial authorities with suitable experience can handle juvenile cases when a special court isn’t available.

Correct Answer: Option 3 – any Metropolitan Magistrate or the Judicial Magistrate of the first class.