PM calls for fast-track courts in exam leak cases amid rising backlog in existing fast-track courts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the establishment of fast-track courts to expedite trials in cases of examination paper leaks. However, data presented in Parliament by the Union Law Ministry reveals that the existing Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) are already overwhelmed with a backlog of 2.45 lakh pending cases.
The Law Ministry's response came in a written reply to questions from BJP MPs Rajkumar Chahar (Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh) and Janardan Mishra (Rewa, Madhya Pradesh). The MPs sought details on the number of FTSCs, including exclusive courts for cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, as well as the number of cases instituted, disposed of, and pending over the past three years. They also requested information on funds released and utilised under the FTSC scheme, and measures taken to improve case disposal rates, address vacancies, and bridge infrastructure gaps.
Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal informed the Lok Sabha that as of April 30, 2026, 775 FTSCs were operational across 29 States and Union Territories, including 398 exclusive POCSO courts. These courts were established to ensure swift justice in rape and POCSO cases. According to the data, 2,45,579 cases were pending in these courts as of December 31, 2025.
The statistics indicate a growing backlog: FTSCs registered 1,43,936 new cases in 2025 but disposed of only 66,500, pushing the pendency from 2,04,122 cases at the end of 2024 to 2,45,579 by the end of 2025. In comparison, the backlog stood at 2,02,175 cases in 2023.
The FTSC scheme, launched in October 2019, has been temporarily extended until September 30 this year. Since its inception, the central government has released ₹1,259.51 crore to States and Union Territories for the functioning of these courts.
The Ministry stated that regular review meetings are held with States and High Courts to improve the performance of FTSCs. The Law Minister has also written to Chief Ministers and Chief Justices, emphasising adherence to statutory timelines. However, the responsibility for filling vacancies of judicial officers and staff rests with the respective State governments and High Courts, the reply noted.
