Odisha CM asks  Police to Shift Mindset, Respect Women

Bhubaneswar :  In a stern address to the state police, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi called for a change in mindset, seeking a report from the DGP on district-wise data regarding crimes against women, the status of pending convictions, and other relevant information within a week.

During the concluding session of a two-day conference for Collectors and SPs, the Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the state’s poor conviction rate in crimes against women over the past 22 years. Majhi urged police personnel to reform their approach, stating that while the government stands by the police force, it will not tolerate corruption, irregularities, or misuse of power under any circumstances.

Highlighting that the conviction rate for crimes against women in Odisha was merely 9.7% until 2022, he described the situation as highly disappointing and emphasized that the government would not accept it. “You must take stern action against criminals, regardless of their positions,” he asserted.

The Chief Minister noted that the low conviction rate suggests either lapses in police investigations or a lack of intent within the department to expedite trials. Reiterating the state government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against crimes targeting women and children, Majhi emphasized that severe action would be taken against even the powerful and influential.

He asked the DGP to compile and deliver district-wise data on crimes against women and the status of pending convictions within a week, indicating that a future roadmap would be developed following legal consultations. Data indicates an increase in cases of eve teasing in the state, and Majhi insisted that the police department must ensure that girls, students, and women can move freely across Odisha.

Emphasizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on the safety of women and children, Majhi reaffirmed that the Odisha government is equally committed to a zero-tolerance stance against such crimes, vowing to take decisive action against all offenders, including those in positions of power. CM Mohan Majhi praised the Odisha Police as a disciplined, community-friendly, and efficient force. While acknowledging some deviations, he noted that the state has earned a reputation for being peaceful.

Maintaining law and order and controlling crime remain top priorities for the Odisha government. The police play a pivotal role in safeguarding citizens’ lives. Thanks to effective policing, elections were conducted smoothly in districts affected by left-wing extremism this year. The fight against left-wing extremism continues, despite a significant reduction in incidents of violence. The Odisha government is committed to eradicating left-wing extremism and will provide all necessary manpower and infrastructure to support this effort.