Bhubaneswar, Jul 29: Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has voiced strong support for the proposed Odisha Gangsters and Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, modelled after Uttar Pradesh’s stringent anti-gangster law.

His remarks come amid rising political tensions and criticism from the opposition BJD, which has questioned the BJP-led government’s law and order record.

Speaking to reporters, Harichandan confirmed that Deputy Speaker Bhabani Shankar Bhoi had written to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, urging the introduction of the new legislation to combat organized crime, including land grabbing, extortion, and contract killings.

Harichandan emphasized that the government’s intent is clear and results are already visible. “In the past year, criminals have been arrested within 24 to 48 hours of committing crimes. The police have been given full autonomy, and the government is using this power effectively — something that didn’t happen under previous regimes (taking aim at Naveen Patnaik-led BJD government),” he said.

Responding to BJD’s accusations, Harichandan dismissed them as politically motivated. “During BJD’s rule, Odisha had the highest rate of crimes against women in the country. They seem to have forgotten that. Under BJP, crime rates have dropped, and we’re committed to going even tougher against offenders,” he added.

He also hinted that if the Chief Minister decides to move forward with the proposed law, it would be a welcome step toward restoring public safety and justice. “If the intent is right, the outcome will be right,” Harichandan asserted.

The proposed law, if enacted, would empower law enforcement with tools like preventive detention, property seizure, and fast-track courts. It marks a shift toward more aggressive crime control measures in Odisha, aligning with BJP’s broader governance strategy.

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