CCTV cameras not working in police stations ! : Supreme Court flags concern

New Delhi – After 11 custodial deaths in Rajasthan within 8 months, the Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance and begun hearings. The Court expressed serious concern that CCTV cameras in police stations across the country are not functioning, calling it a clear case of “lack of oversight.”

The bench observed: “There must be a central control room to monitor CCTV footage without human interference. If any camera stops working, an immediate alert must be generated.” The Court will deliver its order on 26 September.

🚨 SC flags non-functional CCTVs in police stations!

⚖️ Suggests:
🔹 AI-based monitoring of all CCTV feeds at a central hub
🔹 IITs to develop software
🔹 Instant alerts if any camera goes off

❓Why must the court remind police & admin of such basics?

🔍 Were cameras… pic.twitter.com/RSm8iQQ6Fu

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) September 17, 2025

Monitor CCTV through AI

The Court suggested that every police station must be inspected by an independent mechanism. IITs could be tasked with developing software that would allow all CCTV footage to be monitored automatically using Artificial Intelligence. If any camera is switched off, that information should instantly reach the Legal Services Authority or the supervising body. (Why does the Court have to spell out such obvious directions? Why don’t the Police and administration do not take action on their own ? If this continues, and someone demands that the entire system be handed over to the Court itself, what would be wrong with that ? – Editor)

Past Supreme Court directives

In 2018, the Supreme Court ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in police stations to prevent human rights violations. In December 2020, the Court further mandated that cameras must cover entry and exit gates, lock-ups, corridors, reception areas, and spaces outside cells.

The cameras were to be equipped with night vision, audio-visual recording, and data storage for at least one year. (Looking at the Police mindset, is it realistic to expect them to follow these instructions, comply with Court orders, and willingly invite trouble for themselves? – Editor)