Zero FIRs surged by 166% in 2025: CM Majhi

Bhubaneswar: The number of zero FIRs in Odisha surged by 166% in 2025 following the rollout of reformed criminal laws on July 1, 2024, chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi said on Tuesday after visiting the Nyaya Sanhita exhibition organised by the state police here.Under the revised criminal codes—the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)—acceptance of zero FIRs has been made mandatory. Although the provision existed earlier, police noted that it was not effectively implemented.“The conviction rate in Odisha has risen by 87.6% under the new laws. This is a remarkable achievement. From investigation to trial, the new laws have brought improvement at every stage.

In 2025 alone, the number of zero FIRs increased by 166%,” Majhi said.The exhibition, which opened on March 6, has drawn strong public interest, prompting the chief minister to announce its extension by two days, until Thursday.Majhi described the updated criminal laws as a reflection of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to ensuring security and justice for citizens. He said the exhibition serves as an important platform to educate people about the impact of these reforms, marking the end of colonial-era frameworks in India’s criminal justice system.

Highlighting steps to modernise policing, Majhi said: “We are working to make the police more efficient. Foundation stones were recently laid for the National Forensic Science University and the Central Forensic Science Laboratory in Bhubaneswar. An MoU has been signed with IIT Bhubaneswar to enhance police proficiency in modern technology, and another with Rashtriya Raksha University to provide advanced training in contemporary skills.

”The chief minister visited each stall, interacting closely with senior police officers, forensic experts, and legal professionals. He reviewed how modern technology, forensic tools, and digital advancements are being integrated into Odisha’s investigative and judicial processes.