Important for UPSC Prelims: Polity | Governance
Context
The Union Government has temporarily extended the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) Scheme till 30 September 2026 to ensure the speedy trial of rape and POCSO cases. As of 30 April 2026, 775 FTSCs, including 398 Exclusive POCSO (e-POCSO) Courts, are functional across 29 States/UTs.
About the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) Scheme
- Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) are dedicated courts established for the speedy trial of rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
- It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) implemented by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice.
- Launched: 2 October 2019.
- The scheme introduced following:
- Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, and
- Supreme Court’s directions in Suo Motu Writ (Criminal) No. 1 of 2019 for expeditious disposal of POCSO cases.
Key Features
- Dedicated courts for rape and POCSO cases.
- Includes Exclusive POCSO (e-POCSO) Courts.
- Each FTSC has 1 Judicial Officer and 7 supporting staff.
- Covers judges’ salaries, staff and operational expenses.
- Target disposal: Around 165 cases per court annually.
Objectives
- Ensure speedy trials of rape and POCSO cases.
- Reduce pendency in cases of sexual offence.
- Deliver timely justice to survivors.
- Strengthening the criminal justice delivery system.
Measures to Strengthen FTSCs
The Government has taken several steps to improve the functioning of FTSCs:
- Regular review meetings with States/UTs and High Courts through Video Conferencing.
- Performance monitoring through Inter-State Zonal Council Meetings.
- Directions to ensure compliance with timelines under:
- POCSO Act, 2012
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023
- Financial assistance for judicial infrastructure under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Development of Infrastructure Facilities for Judiciary.
Conclusion
- The extension of the FTSC Scheme underscores the Government’s commitment to speedy justice in rape and POCSO cases. However, rising pendency highlights the need for stronger judicial infrastructure and effective implementation.
| IMPORTANT CTC FROM THIS ARTICLE FOR UPSC Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) Scheme |