Assam: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed optimism about the state catching up with the national conviction rate of over 50%, citing a steady rise in successful prosecutions since he assumed the role of Home Minister.
Speaking after inaugurating the Sub-divisional Judicial Magistrate (M) court building in Lakhipur, Cachar district, CM Sarma noted that Assam’s conviction rate had improved significantly, increasing from a meager 5% to 23%. “I believe we will soon touch 30%. If the current progress continues, we should reach the national average within two to three years,” Sarma said.
While acknowledging the scale of the challenge, the Chief Minister emphasized the transformative strides made under his administration. “The situation has changed, but we were so behind that catching up with the national average is a monumental task. However, we are on the right track, and we will reach it,” he added.
The inauguration ceremony also featured Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi. In his remarks, CM Sarma highlighted the positive implications of the new court building, which he said would enhance judicial efficiency in Lakhipur and across the Barak Valley.
The Chief Minister outlined plans to further bolster Assam’s judicial system, including the establishment of a commercial court in Guwahati to address the growing number of business-related disputes. Additionally, a specialized court dedicated to handling Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) cases is being considered.
Efforts are also underway to set up a Directorate of Prosecution, which Sarma said would oversee all administrative tasks related to prosecution and streamline the justice delivery process.
Sarma also urged the legal community to ensure that judicial loopholes are not exploited to delay trials, especially in cases involving crimes against women and children. He stressed the importance of delivering timely justice to maintain public trust in the legal system.
The Chief Minister’s remarks underscore Assam’s commitment to overhauling its judicial framework and improving its conviction rate, aligning the state with national standards while addressing pressing legal challenges.