Fast-Track Special Courts Struggle as Backlog Nears 2.5 Lakh Cases
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The article highlights that Fast-Track Special Courts (FTSCs), set up to expedite trials in sensitive cases like rape and POCSO, are facing mounting backlogs despite government expansion. This comes amid the Centre's announcement of new Fast-Track Courts for paper leak cases after the 2026 NEET controversy. The data shows annual disposals dropped by over 22% in 2025, while pendency rose to nearly 2.5 lakh cases.
Background
FTSCs were launched in October 2019 by the Centre to hear rape and POCSO cases, aiming to deliver swift justice. They are distinct from the original Fast-Track Courts (FTCs) introduced nearly two decades ago, of which 880 are functional. The scheme targets at least 790 FTSCs, but only 775 are currently operational, including 398 exclusive POCSO courts.
Key facts
Annual disposals by FTSCs dropped to 66,500 cases in 2025, down from 85,595 in 2024 (a decline of over 22%).
Pending cases rose from over 2 lakh at end-2024 to nearly 2.5 lakh by end-2025.
Since 2021, pendency increased by nearly one-third, from about 1.8 lakh to nearly 2.5 lakh.
FTSCs have disposed of nearly 3.9 lakh cases since inception in October 2019.
Currently, 775 FTSCs are operational, including 398 exclusive POCSO courts, against a target of at least 790.
Rising case inflows, judicial vacancies, infrastructure constraints, and limited courtroom capacity contribute to the backlog.
Some states have lower pendency per court, while others face heavier workloads, indicating scheme effectiveness depends on staffing and infrastructure.
The article notes that fresh cases continue to outnumber disposals despite expanded judicial capacity.
Prelims pointers
- Fast-Track Special Courts (FTSCs) launched in October 2019
- FTSCs handle rape and POCSO cases
- Target: at least 790 FTSCs; current: 775 (including 398 exclusive POCSO courts)
- Original Fast-Track Courts (FTCs) introduced ~2006; 880 functional
- POCSO Act: Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012
- NEET fiasco 2026 led to announcement of new FTCs for paper leak cases
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Structure and functioning of judiciary; issues of pendency and judicial reforms
- GS2 Governance: Fast-track courts as a tool for speedy justice; challenges in implementation
- GS3 Law and Order: Effectiveness of special courts in handling sensitive cases like rape and POCSO