The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including exclusive POCSO Courts, for another five years from FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31. The extension seeks to accelerate the disposal of pending rape and child sexual abuse cases through dedicated judicial infrastructure.
What is the Fast Track Special Courts Scheme?
The FTSC scheme was launched in October 2019 following the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018 and directions issued by the Supreme Court in Suo Motu Writ (Criminal) 2019. The initiative provides dedicated courts for cases involving rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
Exclusive POCSO Courts are designed specifically to deal with child sexual abuse cases, enabling greater specialisation and a more child-sensitive judicial process.
Following earlier extensions, the scheme has now received its third extension for five years.
Constitutional and Legal Basis
The Supreme Court has recognised speedy trial as part of Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. In Hussainara Khatoon v. Home Secretary, State of Bihar (1979), the Court highlighted the importance of timely justice.
At the same time, special or fast-track treatment must have a rational basis. In State of West Bengal v. Anwar Ali Sarkar (1952), the Supreme Court emphasised the need for objective criteria when cases are classified for special procedures.
Key Features of the Extended FTSC Scheme
The extended programme has a total financial outlay of ₹3,788 crore. The Centre will provide ₹2,353 crore, while participating States and Union Territories will contribute ₹1,434 crore. The Central share will be funded through the Nirbhaya Fund.
The programme aims to support up to 850 FTSCs nationwide. Currently, 29 States and UTs operate 779 functional courts, including 399 exclusive POCSO courts.
Each FTSC will have a dedicated Special Public Prosecutor and six support staff members.
Child-Friendly Judicial Infrastructure
The scheme promotes Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres (VWDCs) and child-friendly court facilities. These arrangements are intended to protect survivors’ privacy, reduce psychological stress and make testimony safer for vulnerable witnesses.
Monitoring and Efficiency
The Department of Justice monitors implementation through the FTSC Dashboard, progress reports and expenditure statements in coordination with High Courts and State Governments.
FTSCs reportedly dispose of around 9.5 cases per month, compared with approximately 3.3 cases in regular subordinate courts.
Significance
The continuation of FTSCs strengthens India’s efforts to address judicial delays in serious sexual-offence cases. Dedicated courts, specialised personnel, child-sensitive infrastructure and systematic monitoring can improve access to timely justice while reducing the burden on regular courts.
FAQs - Fast Track Special Courts
What are Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs)?
FTSCs are dedicated courts that expedite trials involving rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
When was the FTSC scheme launched?
The Centrally Sponsored Scheme was launched in October 2019 to address delays in the disposal of serious sexual-offence cases.
What extension does the article describe?
According to the article, the scheme has been extended for five years, from FY 2026–27 to FY 2030–31, to support dedicated courts nationwide.
How do FTSCs support vulnerable witnesses?
Child-friendly facilities and Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres aim to protect privacy, reduce psychological stress and provide a safer environment for testimony.
How does the FTSC scheme support constitutional rights?
The scheme supports the right to a speedy trial, recognised under Article 21, by providing dedicated judicial resources to reduce delays.
