Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Law Commission celebrated its first anniversary today, marking a significant milestone in the state’s legal history.
Speaking at the event, Minister for Law, Works, and Excise, Shri Prithviraj Harichandan, emphasized that the commission’s establishment aligns with the state government’s vision to modernize the legal framework and eliminate colonial-era redundancies.
Justice Biswanath Rath, Chairperson of the State Law Commission, detailed the commission’s operational strategies and its commitment to achieving its foundational goals.
Dr.Pabitra Mohan Samal, Principal Secretary of the Law Department and other dignitaries were in attendance included Law Commission members Shri Surya Prasad Mishra, Shri Soura Chandra Mohapatra, Professor Lalit Kumar Deb, and Member Secretary Shri Gangadhar Sethi, alongside various senior departmental officials.
Highlighting the progress made in the inaugural year, the Minister noted that the commission has already identified and proposed the withdrawal of 288 obsolete laws.
Additionally, recommendations for amending eight major existing statutes have been submitted to ensure they meet contemporary requirements.
Minister Shri Harichandan remarked that while the nation has been independent for decades, several outdated laws had remained in force, hindering administrative efficiency. He praised the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam as transformative steps toward a modern justice system.
The Minister asserted that these reforms are pivotal for the vision of a Developed Odisha and will play a crucial role in preserving Odia identity by creating a legal system that is accessible and relevant to its citizens.
During the ceremony, Shri Harichandan released the State Law Commission’s Annual Report for 2025-26 and launched the commission’s official website. He stated that the digital platform is designed to ensure transparency and encourage public participation in the legislative amendment process. The website is expected to serve as a vital tool in accelerating the modernization of state laws.