Bhubaneswar: The state government has initiated the process to recruit public prosecutors to boost the criminal prosecution system.

It has decided to create a dedicated public prosecutor cadre. The prosecutor cadre under the home department is being strengthened by induction of a large number of prosecutors and assistant public prosecutors.

Addressing a seminar on "Role of Prosecutors in Criminal Justice System," chief minister Naveen Patnaik said: "The prosecutors bear the responsibility presentation of evidence in the court to secure conviction. They have a duty to procure witnesses and advance arguments to sustain the charges. Further, their opinion for filing appeals and to contest acquittal is vital for the government and, therefore, they have to be meticulous. In short, the professional cadre of prosecutors is the fulcrum on which the entire criminal justice system rests."

"We are quite keen that the prosecutors are selected through rigorous competitive examination and the best talent is drawn to put up a professional front so far presentation of evidence during the trial is concerned," he said.

"As part of this process, 192 assistant public prosecutors have been recruited and will undergo training. Besides, the Odisha Public Service Commission has also initiated the process for recruitment of 12 public prosecutors and 21 additional public prosecutors. After completion of the recruitment, I am sure that the prosecution cadre will be developed into a major organisation," said Naveen.