Supreme Court Directs 17 States to Set Up Special NIA Courts for Expedited Anti-Terror Trials

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notices to 17 states, directing them to take steps to establish exclusive special NIA courts in jurisdictions where 10 or more cases are pending trial under anti-terror laws.

A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N V Anjaria, sought responses from the Chief Secretaries of the concerned states within three weeks. The direction came after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs placed a detailed status report before the Court.

The Bench underscored that prolonged delays in trial defeat the ends of justice, particularly in cases where an accused is ultimately acquitted after years of incarceration and litigation. It observed that the timely constitution of special courts is necessary to ensure speedy trials in sensitive cases involving national security.

Appearing for the Centre, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the Court that the Ministry of Home Affairs has finalised guidelines for financial assistance to facilitate the establishment of these exclusive courts.

As per the report submitted by the MHA, the Centre will provide a one-time grant of ₹1 crore towards non-recurring expenditure and ₹1 crore per annum for recurring expenses for each special court. The funding will cover infrastructure upgrades, IT systems, vehicles, and remuneration for court staff.

The matter is expected to be taken up again after the states file their responses.