What are Fast-Track Courts?
Fast-track courts in India were created to reduce the judicial backlog and ensure timely justice, particularly for serious crimes like sexual offenses and crimes against women and children.
Their establishment followed public outcry for quicker justice after high-profile cases, notably the Nirbhaya gang rape case.
FTCs can handle a wider range of cases, including criminal, civil, and human rights cases
Fast Track Special Court (FTSCs) are dedicated to handling cases related to sexual offenses, particularly rape and violations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act).
The Central Government enacted the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act in 2018, which introduced stricter punishments, including the death penalty for rape offenders.
Subsequently, the FTSCs were set up to ensure the swift dispensation of justice for such cases.
The number of fast-track courts increased from 699 in 2018 to 907 in 2020, but has since declined to 832 in 2023.
Challenges Faced by Fast-Track Courts in India
Many states struggle to maintain operational fast-track courts due to financial constraints and insufficient resources.
Some states, like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, have many courts, while others, such as Odisha and Telangana, lack them entirely.
Even where operational, these courts often face a heavy caseload, leading to delays in justice delivery.
Most fast-track courts focus primarily on sexual offenses, neglecting other high-pendency cases.
Inefficient investigations and inadequate staffing further hinder the courts' effectiveness.
Way Forward
States must prioritize the operation of fast-track courts and allocate necessary resources for their functioning.
Expanding the scope of fast-track courts to include more types of cases could help ease the burden on the regular judiciary.
Implementing digital case management, e-filing, and video conferencing can streamline processes and reduce procedural delays.
States should enhance investigative capabilities and provide forensic services to improve case resolution times.
Continuous government support and funding are crucial to maintain and optimize fast-track courts for delivering justice effectively.
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