In a significant move to strengthen the criminal justice system, the Law Department of the Government of Odisha, in coordination with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, today launched a dedicated Induction-cum-Refresher Training Programme exclusively for Non-Cadre Public Prosecutors.
The programme was formally inaugurated by Prithiviraj Harichandan, Minister for Law, Works & Excise, at 4 PM in the Conference Hall of the Law Department. All District Collectors and Superintendents of Police joined the inaugural session virtually, underscoring the statewide importance of the initiative.
The first phase of training will be held on February 28 and March 1, 2026, at the district headquarters of Cuttack, Ganjam, Sambalpur, Balasore, Puri, Koraput, and Angul. The remaining districts will be covered in subsequent phases.
While regular training programmes already exist for cadre prosecutors, this is the first structured and dedicated capacity-building exercise for Non-Cadre Public Prosecutors, many of whom were recently engaged under the Odisha Law Officers Rules, 1971. The government has designed the programme as a continuous, compact, and sustainable mechanism rather than a one-off event.
The training curriculum focuses on strengthening day-to-day prosecutorial functioning, enforcing procedural discipline, upholding ethical and professional standards, and ensuring uniform practices across the state. A special thrust has been given to the effective implementation of the three newly enacted criminal laws — Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). Participants will receive hands-on sessions on practical courtroom application, evolving judicial interpretations, evidentiary standards, best practices, and strategies to tackle real-time challenges during trials.
Speaking on the occasion, the Law Minister emphasised that a professionally trained prosecution is the backbone of an efficient criminal justice system. He said the initiative will directly translate into faster disposal of cases, fewer procedural lapses leading to technical acquittals, stronger evidence presentation, and timely justice for victims.
Benefits to Common Citizens
A well-equipped prosecution machinery will deliver:
- Faster and more efficient disposal of criminal cases
- Reduction in avoidable acquittals on technical grounds
- Stronger and more professional presentation of evidence
- Timely and fair justice for victims and witnesses
Positive Impact on Litigation
The programme is also expected to bring:
- Better coordination between police and prosecutors
- Improved charge framing and evidence management
- Fewer unnecessary adjournments and delays
- Higher conviction rates through quality prosecution
By institutionalising continuous capacity building for Non-Cadre Public Prosecutors, the Government of Odisha aims to build a more efficient, credible, and responsive criminal justice system that upholds the rule of law and reinforces public confidence across the state.
