Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) for Rape and POCSO Cases Extended
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Central Government has temporarily extended the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSC) scheme until 30 September 2026. As of 30 April 2026, 775 FTSCs (including 398 exclusive POCSO courts) are operational across 29 states/UTs. The scheme aims to expedite the disposal of pending cases under the POCSO Act, 2012.
Background
The FTSC scheme was launched in October 2019 as a centrally sponsored scheme to fast-track cases of rape and child sexual abuse. It has been extended twice, with the last extension valid until 31 March 2026. The scheme provides for the establishment of 790 FTSCs.
Key facts
As of 30 April 2026, 775 FTSCs (including 398 exclusive POCSO courts) are functional in 29 states/UTs.
The scheme has been temporarily extended until 30 September 2026.
Jharkhand opted out of the FTSC scheme via letter dated 7 July 2025.
In 2025, 1,43,936 cases were registered, 66,500 disposed, and 2,45,579 cases were pending as of 31 December 2025.
Funding pattern: Centre:State = 60:40 (90:10 for special category states).
Each FTSC includes one judicial officer and 7 supporting staff, with flexi-grant for daily expenses.
Total ₹1259.51 crore released to states/UTs since inception.
Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of FTSCs (218) and exclusive POCSO courts (74).
Prelims pointers
- Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs)
- POCSO Act, 2012
- Centrally Sponsored Scheme
- Funding pattern: 60:40 (Centre:State), 90:10 for special category states
- 775 FTSCs functional as of April 2026
- 398 exclusive POCSO courts
- Extension till 30 September 2026
- Jharkhand opted out
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Role of Fast Track Courts in reducing pendency and ensuring speedy justice
- GS2 Social Justice: Effectiveness of POCSO Act implementation and challenges in child sexual abuse cases
- GS3 Economy: Cost-benefit analysis of centrally sponsored schemes for judicial infrastructure