Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Sasmit Patra has called for the creation of permanent and/or circuit benches of the Orissa High Court in the Western and Southern parts of Odisha to enhance access to justice for residents in these underserved areas.
In a formal letter to Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Patra stated, “I write to respectfully urge consideration of permanent and/or circuit Benches of the Orissa High Court for the regions of Western and Southern Odisha in the interest of equitable access to justice.”
He noted that the demand for a Bench in Western Odisha has been present for several decades and has consistently received support from members of the Bar, public representatives, and citizens across various political affiliations. Additionally, the tribal and geographically isolated districts of Southern Odisha encounter even more significant challenges in reaching the High Court located in Cuttack.
Patra continued, “The demand relating to Western Odisha also came before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in proceedings arising out of the movement for establishment of a Bench. While the Hon’ble Court emphasised the importance of institutional discipline and uninterrupted judicial functioning, the observations made therein do not amount to a constitutional prohibition against establishment of regional Benches of the High Court through the established consultative process involving the judiciary, the State Government and the Union Government.”
He further mentioned, “Indeed, constitutional practice across India demonstrates that regional Benches of High Courts have repeatedly been established over time to address issues of distance, regional imbalance and accessibility to justice.”
Patra concluded his request by stating, “I humbly request your good office to kindly consider initiating an appropriate consultative process regarding (1) a permanent and/or circuit Bench of the Orissa High Court for Western Odisha; and (2) a permanent and/or circuit Bench framework for Southern Odisha.”
Ultimately, he emphasized that the issue revolves around ensuring that access to constitutional justice remains practical, affordable, and equitable for all citizens of Odisha, regardless of their geographical location.
