Odisha to Set Up 5 Fast-Track Courts for Women’s Cases

Bhubaneswar: In a significant step toward ensuring speedy justice for women, the Odisha government has announced the establishment of five special fast-track courts dedicated to handling women-related cases across the state.

Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Tuesday confirmed that the state has initiated the process for setting up the courts, following discussions with the Orissa High Court.

“These special fast-track courts will focus on cases involving violence and abuse against women, aiming to expedite the judicial process and improve the conviction rate,” the Minister stated.

The five courts will be set up in the first phase, with plans to expand the initiative to all 314 blocks of the state in subsequent phases.

In a parallel development, the state government has also accelerated efforts to expand the judicial infrastructure by establishing 46 new courts in Odisha. This includes 40 new Civil Judge (Junior Division)-cum-Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) courts and six Additional Civil Judge (Junior Division)-cum-JMFC courts.

Additionally, the Orissa High Court has undertaken a major administrative move by transferring 54 judicial officers across the state as part of its regular restructuring process.

These initiatives reflect the state government’s commitment to strengthening the judicial system and ensuring timely justice, especially in cases involving women’s safety and rights.