Fast Track Special Courts

Syllabus: GS2/ Polity, Judiciary 

In Context

• With an disposal rate of 96.28%, Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) have significantly expedited justice for survivors of sexual crimes by ensuring swift legal proceedings in cases of rape and offenses under the POCSO Act.
  • The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 is a gender-neutral law aimed at safeguarding children from sexual crimes.

What are Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs)?

• About: They are dedicated courts set up in India to reduce the pendency of cases involving heinous crimes like rape and child sexual abuse by delivering time-bound justice.
• Establishment: Initiated in 2019 by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice, as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with funding shared between the central and state governments.
  • 60:40 (Centre:States) for most States/UTs with Legislature.
  • 90:10 for Northeastern and Hilly States/UTs.
• Target: Under the Scheme, a total of 790 FTSCs, including exclusive POCSO (e-POCSO) courts, are to be set up.
  • Each FTSC is expected to dispose of 41-42 cases per quarter and at least 165 cases annually to ensure timely justice and case backlog reduction.

Need for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs)

• The Supreme Court of India in 2019 issued directives for the speedy disposal of POCSO cases as both the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and the POCSO Act, 2012 mandate strict timelines for investigation and trial.
• Inadequate judicial resources leading to prolonged trials. Delayed justice fails to serve victims and weakens the law’s deterrent effect.
• By speeding up the judicial process, FTSCs help to send a clear message that society will not tolerate these crimes.

Key Recommendations by Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA)

• Continuation of the Scheme: FTSCs must continue, as they are essential for ensuring streamlined and expedited trials in cases of sexual violence.
• Strengthening Judicial Infrastructure: States and High Courts should appoint special judges experienced in handling POCSO cases. Ensure sensitization training for judicial officers and staff.
• Technological Upgradation of Courtrooms: Equip courtrooms with audio-video recording systems, e-filling of cases & digitization of court records. 
• Strengthening Forensic Support: Increase the number of Forensic Labs & train manpower with necessary skills.
  • Ensure timely submission of DNA reports, thereby accelerating trials and ensuring fair justice.
• Establishment of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres (VWDCs): Set up VWDCs in every district to enable sensitive and child-friendly recording of testimonies.
  • Appoint a child psychologist at every FTSC to assist victims through the pre-trial and trial processes.

Source: PIB