Supreme Court Stresses on Comprehensive Security Measures for Courtrooms
In a move to fortify security within court complexes across India, the Supreme Court has delineated a series of guidelines. These directives come in the wake of growing concerns about courtroom safety and the need for enhanced security protocols.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A bench of Justices S Ravindra Bhat and Dipankar Datta stressed that the safety and security of stakeholders in the judicial system are non-negotiable.
“Mere installation of CCTV cameras may not be enough to tackle such incidents; Rather, something more is required in the public interest to monitor activities that compromise the safety and security in court complexes” the Court said.
Every High Court was directed to submit action-taken reports with respect to the above guidelines by October 10, 2023. Under the supervision of the Chief Justice, the order was also directed to be sent to the Registrars General of each High Court for timely corrective intervention.
The Court emphasized the importance of formulating a robust security plan. It stated,
“There ought to be a security plan in place,”
which should be crafted by High Courts in collaboration with the Principal Secretaries, Home Departments of each State government, and the respective police authorities. This plan is expected to be implemented promptly at both the State and district levels, encompassing District Headquarters and other courts in outlying regions.
A notable aspect of the security plan is the potential establishment of Permanent Court Security Units in every court complex. This would detail various facets, including the strength and source of security personnel, their deployment mode, list of duties, and additional financial benefits. The Court also emphasized the importance of specialized training modules to sensitize such manpower about court security.
On the technological front, the Court highlighted the need for a district-wise blueprint for CCTV camera installation. Urging State Governments to ensure timely execution, the Court stated,
“We emphasize that the installation of CCTV cameras should be an integral part of the construction project of courts.”
Recognizing potential risks associated with data and privacy, the Court advised High Courts to draft necessary guidelines to address these concerns. Furthermore, post the finalization of the security plan, the responsibility of CCTV camera installation and upkeep can be handed over to the concerned District and Sessions Judges for a tailored analysis of local requirements.
The Court also expressed concerns over the lax security measures at several court complex entry-exit points. It recommended a comprehensive approach to security, suggesting measures such as deployment of adequate police personnel, security stickers for vehicles, frisking, metal detectors, baggage scanners, court-specific entry passes, and biometric devices. Additionally, the Court highlighted potential security risks associated with the operations of shops and vendors within court premises and urged authorities to monitor permissions closely.
Lastly, the Court underscored the importance of emergency measures. It emphasized the need for ambulances, medical facilities, and firefighting services to be immediately accessible within court complexes. The Court also stressed the importance of ensuring unhindered movement and keeping the court complex vicinity free from traffic and parking congestion.
These guidelines, as laid out by the Supreme Court, reflect a comprehensive approach to ensuring a secure and safe environment within India’s judicial premises.
