New Delhi (Aryavarth): The establishment and operation of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) in India have marked a crucial step in the pursuit of justice for victims of sexual offenses. Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law & Justice, FTSCs had successfully disposed of 1.74 lakh cases of Rape & POCSO Act as of June 30, 2023.
Championing the cause of women and girl children’s safety and security, the Indian Government introduced the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act in 2018, providing stringent punishments, including the death penalty for perpetrators of rape. The prolonged trials and increasing incidents of sexual offenses made it necessary to have dedicated courts that could provide immediate relief to the victims.
Since October 2019, the Department of Justice initiated the implementation of a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to establish 1023 FTSCs, including 389 exclusive POCSO Courts across the nation for expeditious trials related to sexual offenses. Each court consists of one Judicial Officer and seven staff members. Out of 31 eligible States and Union Territories (UTs), 28 have joined this scheme. A special request from Puducherry led to the operationalization of an exclusive POCSO Court there in May 2023.
The Scheme’s initial phase covered a period of one year, spread over two Financial Years 2019-20 and 2020-21, with a total outlay of Rs. 767.25 Cr., and Rs. 474 Cr. as the Central Share from the Nirbhaya Fund. The Cabinet subsequently approved the continuation of the Scheme for two more years, up to March 2023, with a total budget of Rs. 1572.86 Cr., including Rs.971.70 Cr. as the central share. Further extension of the Scheme is currently under consideration.
Funds have been consistently released to the States as Central Share, with Rs. 200.00 Cr being allocated for the Financial Year 2023-24.
As of June 2023, 763 FTSCs, including 412 exclusive POCSO Courts, are functional in 29 States/UTs. These courts have efficiently disposed of more than 1,74,000 pending cases. The Department has created an online monitoring framework for monthly case statistics and conducts regular review meetings to ensure robust implementation.
In conclusion, the success of FTSCs in India symbolizes a new era in the country’s justice system. The timely disposal of a significant number of cases related to Rape and POCSO Act showcases the government’s commitment to justice, especially for vulnerable sections of society. The continuing efforts to expand and strengthen this network of courts indicate the government’s dedication to ensuring a safe and just environment for all citizens.