With a disposal rate of 96%, FTSCs have significantly expedited justice in rape and offenses under the POCSO Act.
- The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), 2012, is a gender neutral Act to deal with the issue of sexual offences against children.
Fast Track Special Courts
- About: Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice.
- Background: Launched in 2019 post the Supreme Court directive (2019) mandating speedy disposal of POCSO Act cases and for the implementation of Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018.
- Aim: Support State Governments in establishing FTSCs across the country.
- Target: Total of 790 FTSCs, including exclusive POCSO (e-POCSO) courts to be set up.
- Each FTSC is to dispose of 41-42 cases per quarter and at least 165 cases annually.
- Each court to have 1 Judicial Officer and 7 Staff Members.
- Duration: Until 2026 with a financial outlay of ₹1952.23 crore under the Nirbhaya Fund.
- Funding Pattern
- 60% (Centre) and 40% (States) for States and UTs with Legislature.
- In case of Northeastern and hilly States/UTs, share of Centre is 90%.
Need for FTSC
- Limited Judicial Resources: Leads to the pendency of rape and POCSO Act cases.
- Create Deterrence: Timely disposal of cases would create deterrence on future occurrences.
- Aligns with Legislative Framework: The Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and POCSO Act prescribe strict timelines for the completion of investigation and trial.
