The Odisha government has announced plans to set up four fast-track courts and a national forensic college, with the aim of speeding up convictions in cases related to women and other crimes. The initiative was revealed by Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan during a debate in the Assembly focusing on increasing crimes against women.

Despite the government’s assurances of progress, opposition parties have criticized the BJP-led administration, alleging a surge in crimes, including rape and child trafficking, since the party took power. The charges include allegations of government leniency toward offenders and political interference undermining police morale.

In response, members of the ruling party refuted the claims, citing improved conviction rates and denying claims of increased crime, while opposition voices called for legislative reforms and improvement in police numbers, similar to the patterns observed in West Bengal.

(With input from agencies.)