Bhubaneswar, Aug 30: In a landmark move to strengthen justice delivery for marginalized communities, the Odisha Home Department on Saturday issued a revised notification expanding the powers of Police Inspectors and Sub-Inspectors (SI). They are now authorized to independently investigate, arrest, and file cases under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, the notification said.

Until now, these powers were reserved for officers of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and above. The new directive, issued under Section 9 of the SC/ST (PoA) Act, allows Inspectors and SIs to directly handle cases and present them before Special Courts designated for SC/ST atrocity matters.

The decision is expected to significantly improve the speed and efficiency of investigations, especially in remote and tribal regions where access to senior officers is limited. By decentralizing authority, the government aims to ensure timely justice and better protection for SC/ST communities.

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The notification has been circulated to the Director General of Police, district collectors, police commissioners, and other senior officials for immediate implementation. It will also be published in the Odisha Gazette and shared with the ST & SC Development and Minority Welfare departments.

“This reform empowers frontline officers to act swiftly and decisively in cases of caste-based violence and discrimination,” said a senior official from the Home Department. “It reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive policing and equitable justice.”

The move comes amid growing calls for administrative reforms and faster legal recourse in cases involving vulnerable groups. With this change, Odisha joins a progressive list of states enhancing grassroots law enforcement capabilities.