The Odisha Government is formulating measures to strengthen the justice delivery system and ensure timely justice for citizens.
As part of this initiative, a one-day workshop on the effective management of civil cases in district courts was organised for Government Pleaders, Additional Government Pleaders and Associate Lawyers at the Convention Centre, Lok Seva Bhawan.
Inaugurating the workshop, Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said that providing accessible and speedy justice to every citizen is one of the State Government’s foremost priorities. He emphasised that Government Pleaders, Additional Government Pleaders and Associate Lawyers play a pivotal role in upholding the constitutional framework and strengthening the justice delivery system.
He urged them to develop a thorough understanding of legal provisions and judicial procedures while maintaining the highest professional standards. The Minister also highlighted the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and timely adoption of technology in improving the efficiency of judicial processes and facilitating faster justice.
Speaking as the Guest of Honour, Justice Sashikanta Mishra elaborated on various aspects of civil and criminal litigation, including the responsibilities of government lawyers, the importance of evidence, cross-examination and oral arguments. He stressed that continuous exchange of knowledge among legal professionals would help resolve legal complexities and improve the quality of judicial practice.
Delivering the keynote address, Advocate General Pitambar Acharya spoke on the role and responsibilities of government Pleaders and emphasised effective management of civil cases through strict adherence to constitutional principles and legal procedures.
Welcoming the participants, Principal Secretary, Law Department, Dr. Pabitra Mohan Samal outlined the various public welfare initiatives undertaken by the Law Department, including welfare measures for advocates and the objectives of the workshop. Referring to ancient scriptures, he observed that ensuring justice for all has always been regarded as the highest duty in society.
Special Secretary Pranab Kumar Patra proposed the vote of thanks.
The technical sessions featured eminent legal experts. Former Judge of the Orissa High Court Justice Debabrata Das delivered a lecture on Appeals and Recent Judicial Developments, while former High Court Judge Justice Ananda Charan Behera spoke on Drafting and Case Management. Prof. Dr. Durgesh Chandra Mahapatra delivered a session on the Civil Procedure Code (CPC).
Senior Advocate Surya Prasad Mishra conducted an interactive session comprising practical case studies, group discussions and a question-and-answer session focusing on the challenges faced by government advocates and possible solutions.
