Odisha to set up five fast-track courts for crimes against women

Bhubaneswar, May 11: The Odisha government will soon set up five fast-track courts to expedite cases related to crimes against women, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and abuse, state Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithiraj Harichandan announced on Saturday.

Speaking at the 43rd annual conference of the Medico Legal Society of Odisha (MLSO), held at the Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Harichandan emphasized that the courts will aim to deliver justice within a month. “Justice delayed is justice denied. These courts are being set up to ensure timely redressal for women victims,” he said.

Highlighting the crucial role of forensic medicine in legal proceedings, the minister stressed the need for police officers to be trained in medico-legal practices to improve the investigative process. He also lauded IMS and SUM Hospital for hosting the conference.

Prof. Pradipta Kumar Nanda, Vice-Chancellor of SOA University, who attended as Guest of Honour, noted the institution's significant contribution to research and said the event would further strengthen its initiatives.

Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Mahapatra, SOA’s Principal Advisor (Health Sciences), underlined the growing importance of forensic medicine in healthcare and legal systems.

Themed “Forensic Frontiers: Ensuring Maternal, Child and Transgender Health for Social Justice,” the conference also featured remarks from Prof. (Dr.) Pusparaj Samantasinghar, Medical Superintendent of SUM Hospital, along with Prof. (Dr.) Braja Kishore Das, Additional Director of Medical Education and Training, Prof. (Dr.) Kunal Mishra, Head of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, and Dr. Ankita Mitra from IMS and SUM Hospital-2 in Phulnakhara.