Odisha Strengthens Social Governance with Key Appointments
In a significant move aimed at reinforcing its commitment to child welfare and women’s empowerment, the Odisha government has announced fresh appointments to key statutory bodies. With a focus on transparency, reform, and renewed leadership, the state has appointed Babita Patra as the Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) and Shovana Mohanty as the new Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Women (SCW). These decisions mark a crucial step in revitalizing these institutions after previous controversies.
Babita Patra Takes Charge of OSCPCR, Six New Members Inducted
According to an official notification issued by the Women and Child Development Department, Babita Patra—a resident of Mayur Vihar in Berhampur—has been appointed to head the OSCPCR for a term of three years or until she attains the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
Along with Patra, six new members have been appointed to the child rights panel, also for a three-year tenure or until the age of 60, in line with statutory norms. The newly appointed members are:
· Sukeshi Oram
· Kalpana Lenka
· Chandana Das
· Kasturi Mishra
· Manasmita Khuntia
· Sujata Nayak
These appointments come after the controversial dismissal of the former chairperson Mandakini Kar and five other members in March. The previous panel was ousted following a series of allegations regarding misconduct and administrative irregularities. The state government had issued show-cause notices in November 2024, which were subsequently challenged in the Orissa High Court, but the challenge was dismissed, clearing the way for new leadership.
Officials believe the new appointments will bring fresh energy and integrity to the commission, which plays a vital role in protecting children’s rights, addressing grievances, and ensuring policy compliance in child-related matters across the state.
Shovana Mohanty to Head Odisha State Commission for Women
In a parallel development, the Odisha government has also appointed Shovana Mohanty as the new Chairperson of the State Commission for Women. The official notification, dated August 5, 2025, was issued under the provisions of Section 3(1) and Section 3(2)(b) of the Odisha State Commission for Women Act, 1993.
Mohanty, a seasoned social activist from Karanjia in Balasore’s Remuna area, is known for her longstanding work in the field of women’s rights and grassroots advocacy. Her appointment comes at a time when gender issues and women’s safety are receiving increasing attention in public discourse, both within Odisha and nationally.
Her tenure, set for three years, is expected to be marked by policy innovation, strengthened outreach, and a more inclusive approach to women’s welfare. Government sources noted that her collaborative style and deep community engagement were key factors in her selection.
A Fresh Start for Key Social Institutions
With these latest appointments, the Odisha government is signaling its intent to restore public trust and effectiveness in two of its most important rights-based institutions. By bringing in experienced and committed leaders, the state aims to enhance institutional accountability, streamline grievance redressal, and strengthen policy implementation in both child protection and women’s empowerment.
These developments reflect a broader administrative push to ensure that welfare bodies are led by credible and capable individuals—a necessary step in achieving inclusive governance and social justice in Odisha.
(With agency inputs)
