Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Police on Monday issued a strong advisory against the misuse of mobile cameras and invasion of personal privacy, a day after widespread criticism erupted over the media coverage of actor Salim Kumar's funeral at Paravur.
Police Statement on Privacy Violations
In a detailed statement, the police highlighted that incidents involving human suffering, death, accidents, and public crises are increasingly being exploited by some individuals to generate content aimed at attracting viewers on social media platforms. The statement cautioned that unnecessary interference and intrusion into private moments constitute a challenge to an individual's fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.
Background of the Controversy
The advisory comes in the backdrop of intense criticism over the presence of online media personnel and photographers at Salim Kumar's funeral. Videos from the funeral showed cameras and microphones crowding around the grieving family, prompting Kumar's son Chandu to repeatedly request media personnel to move back and allow the family to mourn in peace. The emotional scenes went viral on social media, triggering a broader debate on media conduct at funerals and the limits of coverage during moments of personal grief.
Support from Public Figures
Chandu's emotional protest drew support from several public figures, including Chief Minister V D Satheesan, who was present at the funeral. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for ethical guidelines for media coverage during sensitive events.
Legal Provisions Cited
In its statement, the Kerala Police reminded the public that the right to privacy is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution. It warned that capturing or circulating private images or videos of a person without their consent could invite legal action. Specifically, the police referred to Section 66E of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which provides for imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh for violating a person's privacy by capturing, publishing, or transmitting images or videos without permission.
Advisory to the Public
The advisory urged people to respect personal boundaries and exercise restraint while recording or sharing visuals of individuals during sensitive situations. The police emphasized that such actions not only violate legal provisions but also cause emotional distress to those already suffering. The statement called for responsible behavior on social media and urged citizens to refrain from sharing content that intrudes into private moments of grief or crisis.
The Kerala Police's warning serves as a reminder of the legal and ethical responsibilities that come with the widespread use of mobile cameras and social media platforms. It underscores the need for sensitivity and respect for privacy, especially in times of personal tragedy.
