After 'no justification' remark, Odisha CM clarifies on High Court bench; says committed to speedy justice

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi on Tuesday clarified on the issue of Orissa High Court bench. This came a day after the chief minister’s statement that there was no justification regarding HC bench in any part of the state triggered reactions from different political parties and organisations spear heading the agitation demanding a permanent High Court bench in Western Odisha.

CM Majhi today said that the issue is under consideration and the state government is committed to provide speedy justice to the people.

BJD MLA Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo today said, “The CM’s reply that there is no justification for HC bench was wrong as in view of the strike by lawyers, the Supreme Court had given opinion that through technology, lawyers can putforth their views. But it was not a replacement for a second bench or circuit bench. Bolangir has first right for a permanent bench as there was bench there.”

The MLA further said, “We would be happy if the CM takes big step. However, we have seen several empty assurances. Today, the CM has said that the matter is under consideration. We want an assurance for setting up the High Court bench and a stipulated time frame. During our time, the Odisha government had tried for it. Now there is a double engine government, they should try it as there is a good opportunity now.”

BJP MLA Laxman Bag said, “The CM said that the matter is under consideration and we are hopeful that there would be some positive outcome. We are waiting for it. The Opposition's work is to mislead and politicise it.”

“We are happy that the CM is reconsidering his decision. Wrong facts were presented before the CM and we hope that the way attempts were made to malign lawyers’ strike and detained, an investigation should be taken up. Supreme Court gave an observation after false facts were put before it. The Apex Court has not given any observation for not setting up High Court bench,” said Ashok Das, convener of Kendriya Kriyanusthan Committee.