Supreme Court Demands Answers from Rajasthan Over Widespread Non-Functional CCTVs in Police Stations

India's apex court, the Supreme Court, has once again underscored its unwavering commitment to transparency and human rights within the nation's law enforcement agencies. In a recent and pointed hearing, the Court rigorously interrogated the Rajasthan government regarding its alarming failure to ensure the functionality of CCTV cameras across its police stations.

The bench, comprising Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, expressed profound dismay over the state's apparent non-compliance with crucial directives issued in 2020, which were designed to safeguard citizens and enhance accountability.

This critical intervention stems from a suo motu (on its own motion) case initiated by the Supreme Court in 2020.

Driven by a deep concern for the protection of human rights and the prevention of custodial torture, the Court had then issued comprehensive guidelines. These directives mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations and the offices of central investigation agencies, including the CBI, NIA, and ED.

The order explicitly outlined the strategic placement of these cameras at key locations: entry and exit points, main gates, lock-ups, corridors, inspector's and sub-inspector's rooms, reception areas, and even outside washrooms. Furthermore, it stipulated that all footage must be meticulously preserved for a minimum period of 18 months, ensuring a robust trail of evidence and oversight.

The Rajasthan government's recent affidavit, however, painted a grim picture, revealing a widespread issue of "non-functional" CCTV cameras.

This disclosure immediately drew the Supreme Court's ire. Justice Pardiwala, visibly perturbed, pressed the state's counsel, demanding to know the precise reasons behind these critical failures. "Why were the CCTVs non-functional?" he questioned sternly, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The Court's concern extends beyond mere technical glitches; it delves into the systemic failures that allow such a vital safeguard to lapse.

The bench's queries were sharp and unequivocal, demanding detailed explanations and accountability.

They specifically asked:

• What were the exact reasons that led to the non-functionality of these essential CCTV cameras?
• What concrete steps had been taken by the Director General of Police (DGP) to ensure the prompt and consistent functionality of these surveillance systems?
• How many police stations across Rajasthan currently stand devoid of operational CCTV cameras?
• Crucially, what disciplinary or corrective actions have been initiated against officials responsible for these significant lapses?

The Supreme Court left no doubt about the paramount importance it attaches to this matter.

Justice Pardiwala emphatically declared it a "very serious issue," directly impinging upon the fundamental rights of citizens. The presence of functional CCTV cameras is not merely a bureaucratic requirement; it serves as a critical deterrent against abuses of power, particularly custodial torture, and offers an invaluable source of evidence in both criminal investigations and cases of alleged misconduct.

They embody a commitment to transparency, ensuring that actions within the confines of a police station are open to scrutiny, thereby fostering greater public trust.

In light of these pressing concerns, the Supreme Court has now directed both the Rajasthan chief secretary and the Director General of Police to submit a comprehensive and detailed report within three weeks.

This report is expected to address all the queries raised by the bench and outline a definitive action plan to rectify the deficiencies. The judiciary's vigilant stance signals an unwavering resolve to enforce its directives and uphold the principles of justice, accountability, and human dignity within the nation's law enforcement framework.