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25 July 2026

Fast-track courts and case backlogs

Fast Track Special Courts are a specific institutional mechanism for judicial reform and the protection of vulnerable sections, making them a direct topic for GS2 governance and judiciary questions.

1 min read Day 2 of 4 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • As of April 30, there are 775 functional Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) across 29 States and Union Territories.
  • The FTSC network includes 398 exclusive courts dedicated to cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
  • The primary objective of FTSCs is the expeditious disposal of rape and POCSO-related cases.
  • Data from the Union Law Ministry indicates a significant backlog of 2,45,579 pending cases in FTSCs as of December 31, 2025.
  • In 2025, FTSCs registered 1,43,936 new cases while disposing of 66,500 cases, highlighting a gap between case institution and disposal rates.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 of 4 in Expansion and implementation of Fast Track Special Courts, which has been running since 5 July 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Despite the establishment of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), the pendency of cases remains a significant challenge for the Indian judiciary. Discuss the structural and systemic factors contributing to the backlog in these specialized courts. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The efficacy of the criminal justice system in India is often measured by the speed of trial and delivery of justice. In light of the rising pendency in Fast Track Special Courts, evaluate the role of specialized judicial infrastructure in addressing crimes against women and children. Suggest measures to improve the disposal rate while maintaining the quality of judicial outcomes. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. What is the primary mandate of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) established in India?