New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) scheme for another five years, until March 31, 2031. The decision aims to speed up trials in pending rape cases and sexual offences against children across the country.
Under the extended scheme, the government plans to increase the number of Fast Track Special Courts from the existing 779 to 850. The move is intended to strengthen the judicial system and help victims, particularly women and children, get faster access to justice.
The Cabinet has also approved a total financial allocation of ₹3,788.04 crore for the scheme during the extended period.
What Are Fast Track Special Courts?
Fast Track Special Courts are dedicated courts established to deal with cases involving rape and offences registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
These courts were introduced to reduce the burden of pending cases and ensure that sensitive sexual offence cases receive focused attention. Their main purpose is to make the trial process faster while following the legal procedures and protecting the rights of victims.
The scheme was initially launched on October 2, 2019, under the provisions of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018.
Since its launch, the programme has been implemented across 29 states and Union Territories. The latest Cabinet approval will allow the initiative to continue beyond its earlier deadline.
Number of Special Courts to Increase to 850
One of the major highlights of the Cabinet decision is the proposed expansion of the special court network.
The number of Fast Track Special Courts will increase from 779 to 850. This expansion is expected to provide additional judicial capacity for handling pending cases involving rape and child sexual abuse.
The government aims to reduce the backlog of such cases by providing dedicated courts and improving the availability of judicial resources.
However, the actual impact will depend on the effective functioning of these courts, timely appointments and the availability of supporting staff.
₹3,788 Crore Budget Approved
The Centre has approved ₹3,788.04 crore for the continuation of the Fast Track Special Courts scheme until March 2031.
Out of the total amount, the Central Government’s contribution will be ₹2,353.15 crore. This amount will be provided through the Nirbhaya Fund, which supports initiatives aimed at improving women’s safety and security.
The financial support is expected to help maintain existing courts, establish additional facilities and provide the resources required for the smooth functioning of the scheme.
Judges, Prosecutors and Support Staff
Each Fast Track Special Court will have a dedicated judge, a Special Public Prosecutor and six supporting staff members.
The courts will also be equipped with facilities designed to make the judicial process more comfortable and accessible for children and other vulnerable witnesses.
Child-friendly courtrooms and Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres (VWDCs) are important parts of this arrangement. These facilities are intended to help victims and witnesses give their statements in a safer and more supportive environment.
Such arrangements can reduce the stress faced by children during legal proceedings and encourage a more sensitive approach to handling sexual offence cases.
Why Is the Extension Important?
Cases involving sexual violence and child abuse often require careful investigation and sensitive judicial handling. Delays in trials can create additional difficulties for victims and their families.
The continuation of the FTSC scheme is aimed at addressing this challenge by providing dedicated courts for these cases.
Increasing the number of courts, providing financial support and improving courtroom facilities are expected to strengthen the process of delivering justice.
The extension until March 31, 2031, gives the programme a longer period to work towards reducing pending cases across the country.
The success of the scheme will ultimately depend on how effectively the additional courts operate, how quickly cases are heard and whether victims receive timely support throughout the judicial process.
