Fast Track Special Courts Scheme Extended Till September 2026
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Centre has temporarily extended the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSC) Scheme until September 30, 2026. This extension aims to continue expediting trials for rape and POCSO Act offences across 29 States/UTs.
Background
The FTSC Scheme was initially launched in 2019 to fast-track cases of sexual offences, particularly under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. It has been periodically extended.
Key facts
in5points
The FTSC Scheme has been extended till September 30, 2026.
775 FTSCs are functional across 29 States/UTs.
398 of these are exclusive POCSO courts.
Over ₹1259 crore has been released under the scheme.
The scheme aims to expedite trials for rape and POCSO Act offences.
Prelims pointers
- Fast Track Special Courts (FTSC) Scheme
- POCSO Act, 2012
- Ministry of Law and Justice
- 775 FTSCs, 398 exclusive POCSO courts
- 29 States/UTs covered
- ₹1259 crore released
Mains angles
- GS2: Government policies and interventions for vulnerable sections – women and children.
- GS2: Role of judiciary and fast-track courts in addressing pendency of cases.
- GS2: Issues related to child protection and sexual offences.