On February 23, 2010, the Supreme Court of Nepal announced a decision requiring the establishment of fast-track courts by government authorities to review cases involving violence against women and children. The Supreme Court ordered the authorities to conduct a study of the human resources, physical structures, and other prerequisites necessary for creation of the courts. The authorities have six months after the study’s completion to implement relevant laws needed to launch the courts.
The Court noted that although the Domestic Violence Crime and Punishment Act of 2009 allowed for in-camera hearings in cases related to women and children, such measures were insufficient in protecting their rights. Fast-track courts are now seen as the most appropriate measure to improve the protection of the rights of women and children and to ensure timely decision-making.
Compiled from: Wendy Zeldin, “Nepal: Fast-Track Courts Ordered for Cases Involving Women and Children,” Library of Congress (24 February 2010).