Today, On 14th October, Supreme Court questioned the Rajasthan government over missing CCTV cameras in police station interrogation rooms, stressing that the interrogation room is the main place where cameras should be installed. The Court criticized lapses in surveillance and monitoring systems.
The Supreme Court will hear a suo motu case on faulty CCTV systems in police stations after reports of 11 custodial deaths in Rajasthan. The court stressed accountability and ordered urgent follow-up action.
Delhi Police has issued a new circular under BNSS 2023, stating that ‘police witnesses will now be examined through electronic communication and video conferencing.’ This move aims to speed up legal proceedings and ensure smooth witness examination.
Today, On 4th September, The Supreme Court has registered a suo motu PIL over non-functional CCTV cameras in police stations after a Dainik Bhaskar report revealed 11 custodial deaths in the last 7 to 8 months, raising serious concerns on accountability.
SCAORA has “unanimously and strongly condemned” the Delhi LG’s notification declaring police stations as venues for recording testimony. Lawyers warn it threatens judicial independence and public trust.
The Calcutta High Court has instructed the West Bengal government to report on the functionality of CCTV cameras in police stations due to concerns raised in a public interest litigation. The State must submit a detailed report in eight weeks, ensuring proper monitoring and maintenance of these surveillance systems for human rights protection.
The Orissa High Court directed that all police stations and out-posts must be fully equipped with CCTV cameras by March 31. Additionally, the court emphasized the strict acceptance to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the arrest of armed forces personnel by the police. These measures aim to enhance accountability and ensure proper protocol in law enforcement practices.
The Orissa High Court expressed concern over a case where a complaint was turned into a case against the victims. The court highlighted the need for transparency in police procedures and called for the installation of CCTV cameras in police stations to ensure accountability. This ruling aims to protect citizens’ rights and prevent misuse of power.
The Indian government is set to amend the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), replacing the Indian Penal Code, to include a section on sexual crimes against men and transgender persons. Three new criminal laws are taking effect, despite objections from opposition-led states, aiming to overhaul the country’s criminal justice framework and implement technological advancements in evidence recording and filing procedures.
Three new criminal laws, aimed at modernizing the justice system, replace colonial-era laws from today. They introduce provisions like Zero FIR, online police complaints, electronic summons, and mandatory crime scene videography. The Ministry of Home Affairs has initiated various measures for effective implementation, including technological upgrades, capacity building, publicity campaigns, inclusion in curriculum, and review meetings.
