Justice delayed? Kerala's fast-track POCSO courts at risk of closure

Kochi: The term of operation of 55 POCSO fast-track courts in Kerala will end on March 31, triggering concerns of a crisis if the Central government does not decide on their continuation.

The Centre bears 60 per cent of the operating expenses of these courts. More than 6,000 POCSO cases are currently pending. Fast-track courts were launched nationwide in 2019 to expedite the trial of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act cases.

The Centre provides funds for POCSO courts from the Nirbhaya Fund. Each court has a judicial officer and five staff members, four of whom are on temporary appointments. Judicial officers are posted to these courts through temporary promotions. Along with POCSO courts, district courts are also hearing cases of sexual assault against children.

Based on studies by the National Productivity Council and the Indian Institute of Public Administration, the functioning of fast-track special courts, including POCSO courts, was extended in 2021 and 2023. A separate study by NITI Aayog has also recommended the continuation of fast-track courts.

The Central government has yet to make a decision on the matter.