Order to install CCTV cameras in courts is only for security reasons, clarifies Supreme Court

Order to install CCTV cameras in courts is only for security reasons, clarifies Supreme Court

Context:

• Recently, the Supreme Court passed orders for installation of CCTV cameras in courts.

Background:

• On March 28, 2017, the Supreme Court directed that CCTV cameras should be installed in courts and important locations of court complexes in at least two districts in every State and Union Territory.
• The monitor of these cameras should be placed in the chamber of the district and session judge concerned.
• The apex court had, in its order, made it clear that footage from the cameras would not be made available to the public under the Right to Information Act or without the permission of the High Court concerned.
• The court had also considered the issue of CCTV cameras in tribunals where open hearing takes place like courts.
• It was further directed that cameras may be installed in subordinate courts in a phased manner.

Rationale behind this decision:

• The Supreme Court recently clarified that its orders is meant solely for security purposes and not to record proceedings, which anyway were open to the public.
• For security and administration of justice

“Substantial work” done by government:

• The Supreme Court on Wednesday observed that “substantial work” had been done by the government in this regard.
• The court asked the Union Law Ministry to take a call on whether CCTV cameras should be installed in central quasi judicial authorities within four weeks.