Cabinet Extends Fast Track Special Courts Scheme for Rape and POCSO Cases

The [Union Cabinet](/topic/union-cabinet), chaired by the [[Prime Minister](/prime-minister-celebrates-crpfs-historic-zero-casualty-milestone)](/prime-minister-celebrates-crpfs-historic-zero-casualties-achievement), has approved the continuation of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) for a further five years, from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031. This decision, announced on November 4, 2026, aims to expedite the trial of cases related to rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The scheme has a total financial outlay of Rs.3,788.04 crore, with the central share amounting to Rs.2,353.15 crore, funded from the Nirbhaya Fund.

The primary objective of the FTSC scheme is to ensure timely justice for victims of sexual offences, particularly women and children. The scheme has been operational since October 2, 2019, and has undergone several extensions to maintain the momentum of dedicated fast-track courts. The current extension will allow for the establishment of up to 850 FTSCs, including exclusive POCSO courts, across various states and Union Territories (UTs).

The financial breakdown of the scheme indicates a significant investment in judicial infrastructure aimed at reducing the backlog of cases. The central and state shares are designed to ensure that the burden of funding is equitably distributed, thereby enhancing the capacity of local judicial systems to handle sensitive cases effectively.

Since its inception, the FTSC scheme has made considerable strides in addressing the backlog of sexual offence cases. As of now, a total of 779 FTSCs are functional, which includes 399 exclusive POCSO courts. These courts have collectively disposed of 402,457 cases, demonstrating the scheme's effectiveness in expediting judicial processes.

The continuation of the scheme is expected to further strengthen the judicial response to sexual offences by providing dedicated courts that focus solely on these sensitive cases. The Department of Justice will coordinate with state governments and UT administrations to monitor the functioning of these courts through the FTSC Dashboard, ensuring accountability and transparency in the judicial process.

The proposed expansion to 850 FTSCs is based on the assessment of pending cases across various districts, particularly those with over 100 pending cases under the POCSO Act. This strategic approach aims to target areas with the highest need for judicial intervention, thereby maximizing the impact of the scheme.

The extension of the FTSC scheme until 2031 is not just a continuation of existing efforts but a proactive measure to enhance the institutional capacity of the judiciary. By reducing the pendency of sexual offence cases, the government aims to ensure that victims receive timely justice, which is crucial for their recovery and reintegration into society.

The FTSC scheme was launched in response to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, and in compliance with the Supreme Court's directive for the establishment of exclusive special courts in districts with significant backlogs of POCSO cases. The Supreme Court's involvement underscores the urgency and importance of addressing sexual offences in India, particularly against children.

The scheme's operational framework emphasizes a time-bound disposal of cases, which is critical given the sensitive nature of the crimes involved. The government’s commitment to this cause reflects a broader societal recognition of the need for robust legal mechanisms to protect vulnerable populations.

The Cabinet's decision to extend the FTSC scheme for another five years is a significant step towards ensuring justice for victims of rape and sexual offences. With a substantial financial commitment and a clear operational strategy, the government aims to enhance the judicial response to these heinous crimes. As the scheme progresses, it will be essential to monitor its implementation and impact, ensuring that the goals of timely justice and victim support are met effectively.