A District Magistrate is informed that the police have installed facial recognition cameras to monitor a peaceful public protest. The police argue that the system is necessary to maintain law and order. However, several citizens complain that the continuous surveillance discourages them from exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and raises concerns about misuse of personal data. There is no specific law governing the use of facial recognition technology in such situations. As a public servant, which of the following would be the most ethical course of action? |ForumIAS

Q. A District Magistrate is informed that the police have installed facial recognition cameras to monitor a peaceful public protest. The police argue that the system is necessary to maintain law and order. However, several citizens complain that the continuous surveillance discourages them from exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and raises concerns about misuse of personal data. There is no specific law governing the use of facial recognition technology in such situations.
As a public servant, which of the following would be the most ethical course of action?

[A] Allow unrestricted surveillance since maintaining public order is the primary responsibility of the State.

[B] Direct the immediate removal of all surveillance systems without considering security concerns.

[C] Permit surveillance only with adequate legal authority, proportionality, transparency, and safeguards to protect citizens' privacy and fundamental rights.

[D] Leave the matter entirely to the police as operational decisions should not be questioned by the civil administration.

Answer: C

Notes:

Ethical Values Involved: Rule of Law, Accountability, Transparency, Proportionality, Respect for Fundamental Rights, Public Interest, Constitutional Morality.

Source- IE

Post-Mains Strategy Session by Mr. Ayush Sinha | ForumIAS