Source– This post is based on the article “Cabinet approves continuation of Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Fast Track Special Courts for further three years” published in “PIB” on 29th November 2023.
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) for fast-track special courts (FTSCs) for three more years (01.04.2023 to 31.03.2026).
What are Fast Track Special Courts?
Fast track courts (FTCs) are specialized courts designed to expedite the legal process and resolve cases more quickly than traditional courts. It aims to improve the overall efficiency of the judicial system.
Background – Fast-track courts were first introduced in 2000 on the recommendation of the 11th Finance Commission.
– Based on this, the Fast Track Courts (FTC) Scheme was started and financed by the Centre till March 31, 2010. After this, various States made a policy decision to independently continue the scheme in their respective State.
– In 2019, on the directions of the Supreme Court, a centrally sponsored scheme was formulated by the government to establish Fast Track Special Courts (FTSC) under POCSO Act. The financial expenditure of these courts would be shared by the Centre and State.
| For more information on POSCO Act Click Here to read |
What is the Fast Track Special Courts Scheme?
| Aim | 1) To ensure swift dispensation of justice, offering quick relief to victims while strengthening the deterrence framework for sexual offenders. 2) The scheme mandated the establishment of exclusive POCSO Courts for districts with over 100 POCSO Act cases |
| Type | Centrally Sponsored |
| Initiated in | October, 2019 |
| Implemented by | Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice |
| Funding | 1) Centre-State fund sharing pattern is 60:40 and 90:10 for North-Eastern and Himalayan States. 2) For Union Territories, it is 100% centrally funded. |
| Progress | 30 States/Union Territories have participated in the Scheme, operationalizing 761 FTSCs, including 414 exclusive POCSO Courts |
| Expected Outcome | 1) Reflect the nation’s commitment to ending sexual and gender-based violence. 2) Substantially reduce pending cases of Rape & POCSO Act, relieving the burden on the judicial system. 3) Ensure swift access to justice for victims of sexual crimes through improved facilities and expedited trials. 4) Lessen the burden of cases to a manageable number. |
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