Supreme Court's Directive on CCTV Installation
The Supreme Court of India expressed concern over the lack of compliance by the Centre and various states regarding its directive to install CCTV cameras in the offices of agencies like the CBI, ED, and NIA. This measure aims to prevent custodial torture.
Background and Court's Reaction
- In 2020, a Supreme Court judgment mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in police stations and offices of central law enforcement agencies with interrogation powers.
- The directive was intended to safeguard the fundamental right to dignity and life by serving as a deterrent against custodial torture.
- The court was alarmed to learn about 11 custodial deaths in eight months in Rajasthan, indicating persistent custodial cruelty.
Current Compliance Status
- Only 11 states and Union Territories have filed compliance reports, while the Centre has not filed one.
- The Supreme Court criticized the Union government for seemingly taking the court's directive lightly.
Government's Response
- Solicitor General Tushar Mehta denied that the Centre was taking the court lightly and promised to file an affidavit, although Justice Mehta emphasized the need for compliance rather than an affidavit.
- The Solicitor General argued that CCTVs outside police stations could be counterproductive, citing security concerns.
Future Actions and Compliance
- The court has ordered the directors of the three central agencies and principal home secretaries of the remaining states and Union Territories to personally respond if compliance is not filed before the next hearing on December 19.
- Justice Nariman's judgment emphasized that CCTVs should be installed in all offices where interrogation and holding of accused persons take place.
