Fast Track Special Courts | 14 Aug 2025

Source: TH 

Why in News? 

The Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) in Delhi, established under the FTSCs Scheme 2019 for speedy trial of rape and child sexual abuse cases, have disposed of only around 43% of cases as of June 2025. 

• This is significant as the slow disposal rate undermines public confidence (despite dedicated mechanisms) in the justice system's ability to swiftly address crimes of such severity. 

What is the Fast Track Special Courts Scheme? 

• About: It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Law & Justice aimed at setting up FTSCs through the Nirbhaya Fund.  
  • Under the scheme, each FTSC is tasked with disposing of at least 165 cases annually. 
  • The scheme has been extended twice, with the latest extension valid until 31st March 2026, aiming to establish 790 FTSCs. 
• Need of FTSCs:  
  • Case Backlogs: Alarmed by the large backlog of rape and POCSO cases, the Supreme Court in July 2019 directed districts with over 100 pending POCSO cases to establish exclusive special courts.  
  • Timely Justice: The POCSO Act, 2012 mandates Special Courts to conclude trials within one year from the date of taking cognizance of the offence. 
  • Deterrence: Harsh punishment can deter crime, but its effectiveness relies on timely trials and swift justice for victims. 
• Performance: As of June 2025, 725 FTSCs (including 392 exclusive POCSO courts) are operational across 29 States/UTs, achieving a 96% disposal rate in 2024 alone.

What are the Challenges in Fast Track Special Courts? 

• Insufficient FTSCs: Of the 1,023 sanctioned FTSCs, only around 700 are functional, and as per estimates around 1,000 more are required to clear the backlog. 
• Quality Concerns: Some critics say FTSCs are a “political gimmick”, as fast-tracking one case delays others by reallocating the same judges. 
• Lack of Specialized Support: Many FTSCs lack victim-friendly facilities such as Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centers for survivors and female prosecutors or counselors to guide them through the legal process.

What Measures Can Strengthen Fast Track Special Courts? 

• Judicial Improvements: Appoint Special Judges for POCSO cases, provide sensitization training, and ensure female public prosecutors. 
• Victim Support Facilities: Set up Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centers (VWDCs) in all districts for recording victim statements and holding child-friendly trials in-camera. Deploy child psychologists in FTSCs for pre-trial and trial support as per the FTSCs scheme. 
• Technology in Courts: Upgrade courtrooms with audio-video recording, LCD projectors, and better IT systems for e-filing and digital records. 
• Forensic Strengthening: Expand forensic labs and train staff to clear pending cases faster and deliver timely DNA reports for speedy justice.