UP Cabinet approves setting up of 218 fast-track courts for rapes

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet on Monday (December 9) approved the proposal to set up 218 fast-track courts for hearing cases of rapes and crimes against children.

State law minister Brajesh Pathak told reporters that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed concern over crimes against women.

“The UP Cabinet has decided that for hearing of cases of rapes and crimes committed on children, 218 fast-track courts will be set up. Of these, 144 courts will hear cases of rape, while 74 courts will hear cases filed under the POCSO Act,” he said.

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For these fast-track courts, 218 posts of additional session judge have been created, and staff posts for the court will also be created soon.

“As far as the costs incurred in running the courts are concerned, 60% will be borne by the Centre, while the state government will spend 40%. An estimated expenditure of ₹63 lakh will be incurred on each of the new fast-track courts,” Pathak also said.