Odisha Govt plans exclusive police stations for SC/ST cases

In a bid to strengthen the investigation process in cases involving atrocities against Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), the Odisha government is considering the establishment of exclusive police stations across the state. The move aims to ensure quicker registration, time-bound probe, and efficient disposal of such sensitive cases.

According a report of The New Indian Express, the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Human Rights Protection Cell (HRPC) recently submitted a proposal to the state government recommending the creation of 20 ‘Anusuchit Jati O Janjati’ police stations for handling cases under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

The proposal also sought a three-tier wing at the Odisha Police Headquarters to function as the nodal body for addressing crimes against SC/ST communities, monitoring police action, registering cases properly, and ensuring timely investigation. The Home Department has already written to the Director General of Police (DGP) asking for his opinion on the matter before moving ahead.

Between 2022 and 2024, Odisha registered over 10,349 cases under the SC/ST (PoA) Act, with districts like Jajpur, Cuttack Rural, Kendrapara, Bolangir, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Ganjam, Puri, Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, Bhubaneswar UPD, Bargarh, Keonjhar, Kalahandi, and Balasore consistently reporting more than 100 cases each year.

Despite the high number of cases, Odisha currently operates only one dedicated police station for such crimes, far fewer than neighbouring Jharkhand, which has 24, and Chhattisgarh, which has 27. At present, SDPOs and DSPs investigate these cases, but their multiple responsibilities often cause delays in completing investigations within the mandated 60 days, resulting in witnesses turning hostile and a higher rate of acquittals.

Also Read: Odisha Assembly Session: Traffic curbs announced in Bhubaneswar, check routes 

The HRPC has therefore suggested empowering inspector-rank officers to arrest accused persons, carry out investigations, and submit chargesheets before the special courts.

Meanwhile, under the centrally sponsored scheme for implementing the SC/ST (PoA) Rules, 1989 and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, Odisha has received Rs 35.81 crore in 2024–25 (till March 3) for preventing atrocities and compensating victims.