Cabinet Extends Fast Track Special Courts Scheme for POCSO Cases Until 2031
Key points
Why in the News?
On 4 November 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the extension of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) Scheme for another five years, from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2031.
The scheme aims to provide speedy justice in cases involving rape and sexual offences against children under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
Key Highlights
Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
Scheme | Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) |
Approved Extension | Until 31 March 2031 |
Total Budget | ₹3,788.04 crore |
Central Government Share | ₹2,353.15 crore |
State/UT Share | ₹1,434.89 crore |
Proposed Courts | 850 |
Currently Functional Courts | 779 |
Nodal Department | Department of Justice |
Funding Source (Central Share) | Nirbhaya Fund |
What are Fast Track Special Courts?
Fast Track Special Courts are dedicated courts established to ensure speedy trials of rape and child sexual abuse cases.
The scheme was launched on 2 October 2019 to reduce case pendency and improve access to justice for women and children.
What is the POCSO Act, 2012?
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 is a special law designed to protect children below 18 years of age from sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography-related offences.
It provides for child-friendly procedures during investigation and trial.
Major Objectives
Speedy Justice: Reduce delays in rape and POCSO cases.
Reduce Pendency: Expand the network of special courts from 779 to 850.
Dedicated Staff: Provide each court with a Judicial Officer, Special Public Prosecutor and six support staff.
Child-Friendly Courts: Encourage safe and supportive environments for child witnesses.
Better Monitoring: Track court performance through the FTSC Dashboard.
Important Facts for Competitive Exams
POCSO Act: Enacted in 2012.
FTSC Scheme Launched: 2 October 2019.
Nodal Department: Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice.
Exclusive POCSO Courts: 399 out of 779 functional FTSCs.
Cases Disposed Since Launch: 4,02,457.
Participating States/UTs: 29.
New Target: 850 Fast Track Special Courts by the extended scheme period.
Conclusion
The extension of the Fast Track Special Courts Scheme until 2031 is intended to strengthen India's judicial system, reduce pending sexual offence cases and ensure faster, victim-centred justice for women and children.
