Odisha to have dedicated ‘Mahila Courts’ to address rising crimes against women: Dy CM Pravati Parida

In a bid to address the rising crimes against women, the Odisha government has decided to establish dedicated women’s courts across the state, informed Deputy Chief Minister (CM) Pravati Parida on Tuesday.

Attending a block-level legal awareness program in Nimapara, Puri, the Deputy CM informed that these special courts will handle cases of violence and abuse against women, ensuring faster justice and stricter punishment for offenders. 

The event was organised to educate women about legal frameworks intended to tackle issues such as child marriage, child sexual abuse, workplace harassment, and human trafficking. These topics are of significant concern in the region and the state aims to empower women with the necessary legal knowledge through such initiatives.

Also Read: Odisha's Deputy CM Pravati Parida calls for stronger child protection laws against trafficking

Staffed only by women including judges, lawyers, and personnel, these courts will function like fast-track courts to expedite trials and ensure swift delivery of verdicts. The government has begun the process to setup and is in discussions with the High Court to implement this initiative.

“A block-level legal awareness program was conducted today in the participation of Asha and Anganwadi workers, CDPO, SHG members, women lawyers, advocates, BSW, Mission Shakti women members, OLM members… Today, we learnt that the more women are informed and aware, the more they will be safe. So, we are planning to take a big step and establish women’s courts to ensure faster justice in cases of violence and abuse against women. If women are well-informed and aware, society can be a better place. Our government is also committed to zero tolerance to any kind of atrocities against women,” the Deputy CM said.

A few days back, the Odisha Law Minister had also informed about the establishment of dedicated women’s courts in the state.

“These special courts will handle cases related to violence and abuse against women. This initiative aims to provide faster justice and ensure stringent punishment for the offenders. Similar to fast-track courts, these women’s courts will also ensure swift delivery of verdicts,” the Law Minister had said.