Status of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs)

Intro:

A Centrally Sponsored Scheme for setting up of 1023 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) including 389 exclusive POCSO (e-POCSO) Courts was launched by the Central Government in the year 2019-20, to provide speedy justice to the victims of rape and POCSO Act. The Scheme is to be implemented in 31 States/UTs, and the number of FTSCs were allocated as per the pendency of such cases in the States/UTs in March 2018.??

The FTSC scheme was started in October 2019, initially for one year spread over two Financial Years 2019-20 and 2020-21. The scheme provides for Rs.75 lakh to each FTSC per year.

Contours of the Scheme:?

As on 31.12.2021,?27 States/UTs have operationalized 700 FTSCs including 383 e-POCSO Courts which have disposed 73627 cases. Till date 19 States/UTs have fully operationalized the earmarked FTSCs. Eight States, even after giving consent have partially operationalized FTSCs.

Three States/UT (West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh and Andaman & Nicobar Islands) have not given their consent for the scheme till date.

Appraisal and Continuance:?

The Scheme was evaluated by the National Productivity Council and appraised by the Empowered Committee of Nirbhaya Fund and its continuance for two years was recommended. Considering the paramount importance of safety and security of women and children, the Cabinet has approved continuation of the scheme for two more financial years up to 31st March 2023.

Benefits:

The FTSCs reflect the National commitment to champion the cause of safety and security of women and girl child.?

The FTSCs are dedicated courts which have helped in fast tracking delivery of justice to the vulnerable victims of sexual offences.

The FTSCs help in creating a deterrence framework for sexual offenders and making way for a safe environment for women and children.?????