Image for illustration purposes only. | Photo credit: Ramesh G
The state government is taking steps to set up 15 new fast track courts exclusively for trial of Protection of Children from Sexual Offenders Act (POCSO) cases at various places in Odisha.
The POCSO Act, 2012, passed by the Centre, provides for the establishment of special courts to ensure speedy trial.
State Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Saturday, in response to a question from the Odisha Legislature, said that seats for these courts dealing exclusively with POCSO cases have been identified.
With the approval of the Orissa High Court, the State Government has taken an initiative to set up new Civil Judges (Junior Division) with First Class Courts for Judicial Magistrates’ Courts at various places in the State.
In addition, the Supreme Court approved the setting up of an additional district and sessions court at Khandapada in Nayagarh district.
According to information placed in the assembly, from subordinate courts to the Supreme Court, a total of 18,79,226 cases are pending in Odisha, of which 1,28,019 cases are older than 15 years. As of July of this year, 5,836 civil and 4,493 criminal cases were heard at the Supreme Court. 15,518 civil and 1,02,172 criminal cases were heard in the lower courts.
Mr. Harichandan said that against the strength of 33 judges of Odisha High Court, 19 judges are in place.
Published – 29 Nov 2025 20:10 IST
