TV
The Odisha Government on Saturday expanded the powers of Inspectors and Sub-Inspectors (SIs), allowing them to directly handle cases registered under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
According to a revised notification issued by the Home Department, Inspectors and SIs will now be able to investigate offences, make arrests, and file cases independently before Special Courts under the Act.
Earlier, such powers were reserved only for officers in the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) and above.
The notification, issued under Section 9 of the SC/ST (PoA) Act, states that these powers, usually exercisable only under BNSS/CrPC, have now been delegated to Inspectors and SIs across Odisha. The step is aimed at ensuring faster investigation, effective prosecution, and better handling of atrocities cases.
The order, signed by the Additional Chief Secretary to the Government, has been forwarded to the DGP, senior police officials, collectors, and commissioners of police for necessary action. It has also been sent to the Director of Printing & Publications for notification in the Gazette of Odisha and to the ST & SC Development and Minority Welfare departments.
All forwarding memos were issued on 30 August 2025 and signed by the Deputy Secretary to the Government.
