Context: Union Cabinet extended the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for Fast-Track Special Courts, including exclusive POCSO courts, for five years (April 1, 2026–March 31, 2031).
Key Features
- Launched: October 10, 2019; initially for one year, subsequently extended till March 31, 2026.
- Objective: Expeditious disposal of pending cases involving rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
- Financial Outlay: ₹3,788.04 crore:
- Central share: ₹2,353.15 crore.
- State/UT share: ₹1,434.89 crore.
- Central allocation funded through the Nirbhaya Fund.
- Expansion: Target of 850 FTSCs, including exclusive POCSO courts, based on case pendency.
- Existing Courts: 779 functional FTSCs, including 399 exclusive POCSO courts; disposed of 4,02,457 cases since inception.
- Each FTSC is provided for: Dedicated Judicial Officer; Special Public Prosecutor; Six support staff.
Additional Provisions
- Establishment of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres and child-friendly court spaces.
- Facilitate victim testimonies without causing further trauma.
- Prioritise cases involving women and children.
Prelims Pointers
- Nirbhaya Fund: Established in 2013 to support initiatives enhancing the safety and security of women; administered by the Ministry of Finance.
- POCSO Act, 2012: Gender-neutral law protecting children below 18 years from sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography.
- FTSCs: Dedicated courts for speedy trials; they are not separate constitutional courts but designated courts within the existing judicial system.
