Emphasising that closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) are essentials for maintaining law and order, lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Tuesday formed a high-level committee headed by the Principal Secretary (Home) to evolve a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and framework for the installation, operation and monitoring of CCTVs so that these do not intrude privacy.
“CCTVs are effective tool for law enforcement but privacy concerns also need to be addressed,” a statement issued by the Raj Niwas stated.
“SOP was necessary for uniformity in installation as well as issues of privacy, security, feed-sharing, integration and optimum utilisation will be taken care. The Committee shall mandatorily consult all major users --- departments/ agencies/ local bodies concerned -- for their inputs and suggestions,” the official statement issued by the l-G said.
Mentioning the privacy concerns, the l-G stressed that primary objectives of installation of CCTVs are, inter alia, enhancing security, preventing and detecting crime and supporting criminal investigation, “CCTVs are also an effective tool for facilitating safety of women, aged and vulnerable sections of the society,” it said.
The l-G further said that the use of surveillance cameras helps improve safety and prevent incidents of crimes but should not be used as a tool to harass people. “There have been reported instances of misuse of CCTVs for intrusion and compromises on privacy and safety of individuals,” he added. “The use of the surveillance camera system should not be permitted to become a tool to violate privacy of individuals which is considered to be a fundamental right,” the Raj Niwas release stated.
“CCTVs are used in the most effective way to support public safety and law enforcement, the Committee will recommend the following - norms for installation of CCTVs in public places. There would be proper mechanism for informing members of public and affected parties that they are under surveillance, wherever applicable and system for effective review and audit,” it added.