Continuation of Fast Track Special Courts

The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the extension of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2026. This scheme, with a financial implication of Rs. 1952.23 crore, signifies the government’s commitment to expediting trials related to sexual offenses, ensuring the safety and security of women and children.

Origins and Purpose

• Launched on October 2, 2019, the FTSCs were established in response to the escalating incidents of rape involving women and girl children.
• The enactment of “The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018” paved the way for the creation of FTSCs, emphasizing stringent punishment for rape offenders, including the death penalty.

Scheme Implementation

• The Centrally Sponsored Scheme, managed by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice, focuses on the timely disposal of cases related to rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act).
• The FTSCs aim to expedite trials, providing immediate relief to victims and strengthening the deterrence framework against sexual offenders.

Scheme Extension and Financial Implications

• Initially launched for one year in October 2019, the scheme was extended for an additional two years until March 31, 2023.
• The recent approval extends the scheme further until March 31, 2026, with a financial outlay of Rs. 1952.23 crore, funded through the Nirbhaya Fund.

Scheme Impact and Participation

• Implemented in 30 States/Union Territories, the scheme has operationalized 761 FTSCs, including 414 exclusive POCSO Courts.
• These courts have successfully resolved over 1,95,000 cases, supporting State/UT Government efforts to provide timely justice even in remote areas.

Expected Outcomes

1. Commitment to Ending Violence: Reflect the nation’s commitment to ending sexual and gender-based violence.
2. Reduced Pending Cases: Substantially reduce pending cases of Rape & POCSO Act, relieving the burden on the judicial system.
3. Swift Access to Justice: Ensure swift access to justice for victims through improved facilities and expedited trials.
4. Manageable Caseload: Lessen the burden of cases to a manageable number, promoting efficiency in the judicial process.