Marking the first anniversary of the Odisha State Law Commission, Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan today unveiled the commission’s annual report for 2025-26 and inaugurated its new official website.
The event also highlighted major reform proposals, including the repeal of 288 obsolete laws and amendments to eight key legislations.
Speaking at the function, Minister Harichandan said that even decades after Independence, numerous outdated laws continue to remain in force. He noted that the recent introduction of modern central laws — the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam — has made the justice system more contemporary and relevant. “The formation of the Odisha State Law Commission has already yielded concrete results. Proposals have come forward to repeal 288 obsolete laws and amend eight major laws. This will streamline the legal system, accelerate the vision of a developed Odisha, and give a new direction to Odia identity,” the minister said.
He added that the newly launched website — https://law.odisha.gov.in/or/odisha-state-law-commission — will promote transparency, encourage public participation in law-making, and fast-track the modernisation of state laws.
Describing the annual report as a “true reflection of the commission’s sincere efforts and dedication,” Harichandan congratulated the members and staff for their commitment during the first year.
Justice Biswanath Rath, Chairperson of the Odisha State Law Commission, spoke about the commission’s formation, its functioning, and the progress made towards achieving its mandated goals. Principal Secretary of the Law Department, Pavitra Mohan Samal, delivered the welcome address.
The function was attended by commission members Surya Prasad Mishra, Saur Chandra Mahapatra, Professor Lalit Kumar Deb, Member Secretary Gangadhar Sethi, and senior officials from the Law Department and the commission.
