FTSCs came into existence after the passage of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act in 2018 in the aftermath of the “Nirbhaya” gangrape case in Delhi. The Scheme was launched on 02.10.2019.
Central government established FTSCs for the timely disposal of cases related to rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act) in August 2019. The scheme mandated the establishment of exclusive POCSO Courts for districts with over 100 POCSO Act cases.
Initially commenced in October 2019 for one year, the scheme was extended for an additional two years until 31.03.2023. Now, it has been further extended until 31.03.2026, with a financial outlay of Rs. 1952.23 crore, with the Central Share funded from the Nirbhaya Fund.
Thirty States and Union Territories have participated in the scheme, operationalizing 761 FTSCs, including 414 exclusive POCSO Courts. These courts support State/UT Government efforts to provide timely justice to victims of sexual offenses. even in remote and far-flung areas.
Manish Poswal
