Odisha to set up fast-track courts to deal with women cases

The state government took a series of decisions in this regard at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. While there was provision of framing chargesheets within 120 days in the CrPC, Patnaik directed the police to complete investigation into rape, molestation and other heinous crimes within 60 days.

"The victim of sexual assault can lodge FIR at any police station in the state not considering the jurisdiction she belongs," a senior official said quoting a decision at the meeting.

This apart, the official said that the state government also decided to open Mahila Cells at the office of all the superintendents of police (SPs) in all the districts and strengthen the Mahila and Sishu desk in all police stations.

"The government also decided to appoint new sub-inspector (SI) of police in all the 537 police stations of the state. These new SIs will specially address the complaints of women," he said adding that a special cadre of public prosecutors would be created in order to expedite cases involving woman.

Director General of Police (DGP) had been bestowed with authority to appoint special public prosecutors in women related cases, he said.

In a bid to curb the increasing trafficking of women and children in the state, the meeting resolved to strengthen the units created for the purpose. District level forensic laboratories would also be strengthened.