The Supreme Court of India has issued a significant directive regarding surveillance infrastructure in police stations across the country. The apex court emphasized that the mere installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras is not sufficient; these systems must function properly and effectively to serve their intended purpose of enhancing transparency and accountability.
Rajasthan Government's Proactive Response
In response to this judicial observation, the Rajasthan government has taken concrete steps to bolster its surveillance capabilities. On Wednesday, the state administration informed the Supreme Court that an additional budget of Rs 75 crores has been sanctioned specifically for this initiative.
Enhanced Surveillance Targets
This substantial financial allocation will enable a significant upgrade in the CCTV coverage at police stations throughout Rajasthan. Instead of the previously planned 12 cameras per station, each police station in the state will now be equipped with 16 CCTV cameras. The government has set a clear deadline for this implementation, targeting completion by March 31, 2026.
The Supreme Court's remarks highlight a crucial aspect of modern policing infrastructure. While many states have focused on installing surveillance equipment, the functionality and operational reliability of these systems have often been overlooked. Properly functioning CCTVs can play a vital role in:
- Monitoring activities within police station premises
- Ensuring compliance with legal procedures
- Providing evidence in case of disputes or allegations
- Deterring potential misconduct
- Building public trust in law enforcement agencies
Broader Implications for Policing
This development comes at a time when there is increasing scrutiny of police procedures and custodial practices across India. The Supreme Court's insistence on functional surveillance systems reflects a growing judicial emphasis on transparency in law enforcement operations. Rajasthan's proactive approach in allocating additional funds and expanding camera coverage sets a noteworthy precedent for other states to follow.
The enhanced CCTV coverage planned for Rajasthan police stations represents a substantial investment in modern policing infrastructure. With 16 cameras per station instead of 12, the surveillance network will provide more comprehensive coverage of station premises, potentially including entry points, interrogation rooms, holding areas, and other critical spaces where interactions between police personnel and citizens occur.
As the March 31 deadline approaches, implementation challenges may include technical installation, staff training on system operation and maintenance, and establishing protocols for data storage and access. The success of this initiative will depend not just on equipment installation but on creating sustainable systems for ongoing operation and monitoring.
