ASBM University’s 4th Law Symposium Explores India’s Criminal Justice System
January 18, 2025 – The School of Law, ASBM University, successfully organized the 4th Law Symposium on January 18, 2025, focusing on the theme, ‘Criminal Justice Delivery System in India: Retrospect and Prospects.’ The event brought together distinguished dignitaries to discuss the evolution and challenges of India’s criminal justice system.
The symposium was graced by Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ananga Kumar Patnaik, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, as the Chairperson; Hon’ble Mr. Justice M.B. Lokur, Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council and Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, as the Chief Guest; and Prof. (Dr.) Rangin Pallav Tripathy, Professor and Registrar of National Law University, Odisha, as the Guest of Honour and Keynote Speaker. The symposium began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Justice Patnaik and Justice Lokur.
Prof. (Dr.) Biswajeet Pattanayak, Honourable Founder and President of ASBM University, delivered the welcome address, reflecting on the rich history and cultural roots of the Indian justice system. He highlighted the judiciary’s pivotal role in ensuring justice and emphasized the relevance of the symposium’s theme in addressing contemporary challenges.
In his keynote address, Prof. (Dr.) Rangin Pallav Tripathy explored the nuances of the criminal justice delivery system, emphasizing that justice is an ongoing process rather than a product. Using real-life cases, he underscored the importance of adhering to constitutional principles and fairness in the justice delivery process.
Hon’ble Mr. Justice M.B. Lokur presented a comprehensive analysis of the growing challenges in India’s criminal justice system, including the rise in crimes against women, children, and cybercrime. He identified critical issues such as the shortage of judicial officers, procedural flaws in investigations, and malpractices in prosecution. Justice Lokur emphasized fairness, accountability, and the need for structural reforms to address these challenges effectively.
Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ananga Kumar Patnaik provided an insightful critique of the system, attributing its inefficiencies to societal and political challenges. Drawing from his vast experience, he highlighted the importance of rooting investigations and prosecutions in constitutional principles while emphasizing accuracy and scientific precision.
The afternoon plenary session, moderated by Shri Laxmidhar Pangari, Senior Advocate, Orissa High Court, featured panelists Prof. (Dr.) Paromita Chattoraj, Shri Abani Kumar Sahu, and Prof. (Dr.) Premananda Ranasingh. The session provided an engaging discussion on actionable strategies for reforming India’s criminal justice delivery system.
Prof. (Dr.) Biswajeet Pattanayak presented mementos to the dignitaries, including Justice Patnaik, Justice Lokur, and Prof. Tripathy, as a token of appreciation. Prof. (Dr.) Ranjan Kumar Bal, Vice-Chancellor of ASBM University, delivered the vote of thanks. The symposium was coordinated by Dr. Premananda Ranasingh, Dr. Jharasri Paikaray, and Dr. Rupashree Sahoo and witnessed the presence of senior faculty members, delegates, and students.
The event concluded with profound insights and actionable strategies, inspiring participants to contribute toward strengthening India’s criminal justice system.