Bhubaneswar: “Digital transformation is reshaping human lives and driving national development. However, it also brings serious cybersecurity challenges.
Understanding the legal framework and practising digital safety are essential to protect both individual and societal interests,” said Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan Saturday.
He was speaking as a chief guest at a workshop titled “Securing Digital India: Challenges, Strategies and Legal Framework in the Cyber Age,” organised by University Law College, Utkal University, as part of its golden jubilee celebrations.
The event brought together legal experts, policymakers, academics, and students to discuss the growing threats of cybercrime and the urgent need for effective legal and technological solutions.
Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar–Cuttack, S Dev Datta Singh, delivered the keynote address, describing cybercrime as a “complex and evolving issue.”
He noted, “Law enforcement operates within an ecosystem that includes the legal system, civil society, and key stakeholders.
I thank the Law Minister for empowering us to act without fear or favour to ensure public safety.”
He praised a student-made video that depicted how a victim of online blackmail found support through friends and family.
“Unfortunately, not everyone gets such support; many suffer in silence. My message is simple: speak up, don’t isolate yourself.
Avoid clicking unknown links or sharing personal information. Most cybercrimes are preventable with awareness and open communication,” he advised. Speaking at the event, Principal Gaynendra Kumar Sahu remarked, “This is the first visit by the Law Minister to our college in the past eight years.
This e-workshop reflects a meaningful collaboration between governance, legal expertise, and multidisciplinary engagement.”
He added that experts from technology, law enforcement, and psychological counselling were invited to offer diverse perspectives. “Our aim is to help students understand both the legal and technological dimensions of cybercrime,” he said.
PNN