Justice – Centre Assures Supreme Court on CCTV Rollout in Police Stations
Justice – The Central government on Tuesday informed the Supreme Court that all pending concerns related to the installation and operation of CCTV cameras in police stations across India would be resolved within the next two weeks.
Government Assurance Before the Court
During the hearing, Attorney General R. Venkataramani told a bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta that the remaining issues surrounding CCTV implementation would be addressed within a fortnight. The assurance came as part of ongoing proceedings focused on improving surveillance and accountability in police stations nationwide.
The Union Home Secretary also appeared before the court, complying with a prior direction issued a day earlier. The court had specifically asked for his presence to provide clarity and assistance on the progress of CCTV installation and related challenges.
Focus on Coordination Between Centre and States
The Supreme Court emphasized the need for effective coordination between the Union government and state authorities. It noted that both levels of governance must work together to ensure full compliance with its earlier directives on installing surveillance systems in police stations.
The bench highlighted that consistent implementation across states is essential to achieve the intended goals of transparency and accountability. Any gaps in coordination, the court suggested, could undermine the broader purpose of these measures.
Background of the 2020 Supreme Court Directive
The matter traces back to a significant 2020 judgment, in which the Supreme Court mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations. The directive specified that cameras should cover key areas such as entry and exit points, lock-ups, corridors, and reception areas.
Additionally, the court had laid down technical requirements for these systems. Cameras were required to have night vision capability, audio recording features, and sufficient storage to preserve footage for at least one year. These provisions were aimed at ensuring that the surveillance systems remain functional and effective over time.
Push for Transparency and Citizen Protection
The court’s earlier ruling was driven by concerns over custodial violence and the need to safeguard fundamental rights. By mandating CCTV coverage, the judiciary sought to create a system of checks that would deter misconduct and provide reliable evidence in case of complaints.
The latest hearing revisited these concerns, with the bench noting that compliance remains uneven in several regions. The government’s assurance to resolve pending issues within two weeks is expected to accelerate progress and address existing shortcomings.
Suo Motu Case and Custodial Death Concerns
In September 2025, the Supreme Court had taken suo motu cognisance of the issue after reports highlighted the lack of functional CCTV cameras in many police stations. The court initiated proceedings in the public interest following media coverage that pointed to multiple deaths in police custody within a span of several months.
This development added urgency to the matter, prompting the court to closely monitor the implementation of its earlier directives. The current proceedings are part of that continued oversight.
Additional Direction on Urgent Case Mentions
Separately, the Supreme Court also issued an important procedural direction regarding urgent case listings. It clarified that matters deemed “exceptionally urgent” must be mentioned directly before the Chief Justice of India.
Traditionally, in the absence of the Chief Justice, such matters could be mentioned before the seniormost available judge. The new directive seeks to streamline the process and ensure consistency in handling urgent cases.
Ongoing Monitoring by the Apex Court
The Supreme Court’s continued involvement indicates that the issue remains a priority. By setting a clear two-week timeline and seeking direct accountability from senior officials, the court has signaled its intent to ensure meaningful compliance rather than symbolic measures.
As the deadline approaches, attention will remain on whether the Centre and states can meet the court’s expectations and fully implement the mandated surveillance systems across all police stations.