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The Union Cabinet, in its decision yesterday, approved continuation of 1023 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) including 389 exclusive Protection of Children From Sexual Offences (POCSO) Courts, as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for two years, with an outlay of 1572.86 Crores.

Key pointers of the Cabinet Decision

• 1023 Fast Track Special Courts get 2 year Extension
• Cabinet extends centrally sponsored scheme till March 31, 2023
• 389 exclusive POCSO Courts also get an extension
• Central Share of outlay to be funded from Nirbhaya Fund

The benefits sought to be achieved in view of the new decisions include, (1) Providing quick justice to hapless victims (2) Deterrence framework for sexual offenders (3) Reduction in number of pending cases of Rape under the POCSO Act (4) Speedy Justice (5) De-clogging of Judicial system

“Since the setting up of fast track special courts, over 51,600 cases of rape and POCSO offences have been expeditiously disposed through 660 FTSCs in 26 states. Cabinet decision will support establishment of more FTSCs, thereby, resulting in speedy trial and justice to the victims,” said Women and Child Development Minister, Ms. Smriti Irani