DECLINE IN CONVICTION RATE IN FAST-TRACK COURTS

**Executive Summary** This document addresses the decline in conviction rates in Fast Track Courts (FTCs) and clarifies their operational structure. It states that FTCs are established and funded by State/UT governments in consultation with respective High Courts, as recommended by the 14th Finance Commission, with 879 FTCs functional as of December 31, 2025. The information was provided in a written reply in Rajya Sabha by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Law and Justice. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fast Track Courts (FTCs):** * FTCs are established to provide speedy justice. * FTCs are set up by the States/UTs in consultation with the respective High Courts based on their requirements and available resources. * The 14th Finance Commission recommended setting up 1800 FTCs during 2015-2020 for expedited trials. * Specific cases handled by FTCs include heinous crimes, civil cases involving women, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, individuals afflicted with terminal illnesses, and property-related cases pending for more than five years. * As of 31.12.2025, 879 FTCs are functional across 22 States/UTs. * **Funding and Administration:** * FTCs are administered by the High Courts and funded by the States/UTs. * The Central government does not provide funding for FTCs. * The Department (unspecified) does not maintain exclusive conviction rate data for FTCs. * **Factors Influencing Conviction Rates:** * Conviction rates depend on multiple factors, including quality of investigation, complexity of facts, evidence quality, and cooperation from stakeholders (bar, investigation agencies, legal representation, forensic support, witnesses, litigants). * Conviction rates are not necessarily reflective of court performance. * Courts are mandated to deliver justice in accordance with the law, which may include acquittal. * **Judicial Officer Recruitment:** * Filling vacant positions for judges, prosecutors, and staff in courts, including FTCs, is the responsibility of State/UT governments and the concerned High Courts. * State/UT Governments, in consultation with the respective High Courts, frame the rules regarding recruitment and appointment of Judicial Officers, as per the Constitutional framework (Article 309, Articles 233 and 234). **Impact Analysis** **State/UT Governments and High Courts** * **Impact:** Responsible for setting up, administering, and funding FTCs. Also responsible for the recruitment and appointment of judicial officers. * **Action Required:** Continue to oversee the operations of FTCs, address vacancies in judicial positions, and ensure adequate resource allocation to maintain efficient court functioning. **Ministry of Law and Justice** * **Impact:** While not directly funding or managing FTCs, the Ministry is responsible for providing information and oversight regarding their operation. * **Action Required:** Continue to monitor the functioning of FTCs and address related questions in parliament. **Citizens/Litigants** * **Impact:** Affected by the efficiency and accessibility of the justice system, including the speed and fairness of trials in FTCs. * **Action Required:** No direct action is required, but citizens may need to be aware of the factors influencing conviction rates and the role of different stakeholders in the justice system.

Key Entities Referenced