Supreme Court Demands Urgent Compliance from Rajasthan on Mandated Police Station CCTVs

In a significant move underscoring the judiciary's commitment to transparency and accountability in law enforcement, the Supreme Court has issued a stern directive to the state of Rajasthan. The apex court has granted Rajasthan a "last opportunity" of four weeks to file an affidavit detailing its compliance with a crucial 2020 order that mandates the installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations across the country.

The original directive, issued on December 2, 2020, by a three-judge bench, was a landmark judgment aimed at curbing instances of human rights abuses and custodial violence.

The order stipulated that CCTVs must be installed at all entry and exit points, the main gate, lock-ups, corridors, reception areas, verandas, the station hall, sub-inspector rooms, and even the outer perimeter of police stations. Furthermore, it mandated that footage from these cameras be preserved for a minimum period of 18 months, ensuring a robust record for oversight.

During a recent hearing, a bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta expressed its displeasure over Rajasthan's failure to adhere to the mandate.

Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, serving as amicus curiae in the case, brought to the court's attention that several states and Union Territories, including Rajasthan, had yet to file their compliance affidavits. Responding to this, the bench firmly stated, "Give them a last opportunity of four weeks to file the affidavit, failing which we will impose costs." This serves as a clear warning that judicial patience is wearing thin.

The 2020 judgment was comprehensive, not only specifying the locations for camera installation but also emphasizing the importance of their functionality and the secure storage of their recordings.

The objective is unequivocally to enhance accountability, deter misconduct, and provide crucial evidence in cases involving allegations against police personnel, thereby safeguarding the rights of individuals in custody.

Beyond state police forces, the Supreme Court's 2020 order extended its reach to other central investigating agencies.

It unequivocally stated that offices of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), and Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) must also be equipped with CCTV cameras. This broad application highlights the court's intent to foster transparency across the spectrum of law enforcement and investigative operations.

The Supreme Court's current stance on Rajasthan's non-compliance reaffirms its unwavering commitment to human rights and the rule of law.

The four-week deadline is not merely an administrative formality but a critical opportunity for Rajasthan to demonstrate its adherence to a fundamental principle of justice. Failure to comply will not only result in financial penalties but will also raise serious questions about the state's dedication to ensuring the safety and rights of its citizens within its police establishments.