Guwahati, 29th November: The approval for the continuation of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) from 01.04.2023 to 31.03.2026 has been granted by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The financial implication of this extension amounts to Rs 1952.23 crore, with Rs 1207.24 crore as the Central Share and Rs 744.99 crore as the State share, funded from the Nirbhaya Fund. Launched on 02.10.2019, the scheme reflects the government’s steadfast commitment to the safety and security of women and children, evident in initiatives like the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ program.
Incidents involving the rape of girls and women have deeply impacted the nation, leading to the enactment of “The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act. 2018” by the Central Government. This legislation, including stringent punishments such as the death penalty for rape offenders, paved the way for the creation of FTSCs. These specialized courts are designed to expedite trials and provide immediate relief to victims of sexual offenses.
Implemented by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice, the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of FTSCs aims to strengthen State Government resources for the establishment of these courts across the country. Initially launched in October 2019 for one year, the scheme was extended for an additional two years until 31.03.2023. Now, it has received further extension until 31.03.2026, with a financial outlay of Rs. 1952.23 crore, utilizing the Central Share from the Nirbhaya Fund.
Thirty States/Union Territories actively participate in the scheme, operationalizing 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 to victims of sexual offenses, even in remote areas.
The expected outcomes of the scheme include reflecting the nation’s commitment to ending sexual and gender-based violence, substantially reducing pending cases of rape and POCSO Act, ensuring swift access to justice for victims through improved facilities and expedited trials, and lessening the burden of cases on the judicial system.
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