Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Governance
Why in news?
The Union Cabinet has approved a five-year extension of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including exclusive POCSO courts, from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2031.
- FTSCs – These are dedicated judicial mechanisms set up in India to ensure the speedy trial and disposal of cases related to rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
- Objective – To provide time-bound justice to victims by establishing FTSCs, including exclusive POCSO courts, across the country, ensuring the targeted disposal of rape and POCSO Act cases.
- Origin & Authority – Launched in October 2019 by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice.
- Funding – The Scheme has a total financial outlay of over 3,788 crore rupees, with the Central Share to be funded from the Nirbhaya Fund.
- Scale & Capacity – The extended scheme has provision for the operationalisation of 850 Fast Track Special Courts, including exclusive POCSO Courts, across various participating States and UTs.
- Current Status – As of late 2026, there are 779 functional FTSCs (including 399 exclusive POCSO courts) operating across 29 States and UTs.
- Disposal Track Record – These courts have disposed of over 4,02,457 cases since the scheme was launched on October 10, 2019.
- Staffing & Resources – Each court provides a dedicated Judicial Officer, a Special Public Prosecutor, and six support staff members to facilitate expeditious disposal of pending cases.
- Victim support – The scheme's extension is expected to promote the creation of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres (VWDCs) and child-friendly courts.
- These facilities will help victims, especially women and children, give testimony in a safe and comfortable environment, ensuring quicker and more sensitive delivery of justice.
Reference
The Hindu | Cabinet extends Fast Track Special Courts scheme by five years
