Bhubaneswar recorded the first conviction of 2026 under the Nyaya Sanhita, achieved within just 35 days of the FIR.
Authorities secured a swift judgment in the Maitrivihar Police Station Case No. 517/2025, dated November 28, 2025.
Police registered the FIR on November 28 and filed the charge sheet on November 30, only three days later. The court pronounced judgment on January 2, 2026, marking a milestone in fast-track justice.
The convict, Balaram Pradhan, 35, son of Baisnab Pradhan of Adibasi Gaon, Salia Sahi, faced charges under Section 303(2) BNS for stealing a Yamaha Scooty (Regd. No. OD-02-BF-2824). Local intelligence helped police identify and apprehend him. The trial examined only four witnesses, yet the evidence proved sufficient for conviction.
Officials confirmed that Pradhan has at least four other criminal cases pending against him. The court sentenced him to two years of rigorous imprisonment.
The achievement reflects the government’s vision for fast investigation and trial under the new criminal laws. Odisha Police leadership, including the DGP, CP Bhubaneswar–Cuttack, and DCP Bhubaneswar, monitored the case closely. Investigating Officer SI Surach Behera, Inspector Rabinarayan Behera, and APP Shri Answar Ali played key roles in ensuring the conviction.
In 2025, Odisha recorded 35 fast convictions under Nyaya Sanhita, with four cases resolved within 50 days of FIR registration. The first conviction of 2026 sets a strong benchmark for the year. Authorities believe such swift convictions will deter criminals and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.
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