CCTV cameras in courts for security, not recording proceedings: SC

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 13

The Supreme Court on Tuesday clarified that the purpose of installing CCTV cameras in courts was to ensure security and not for video recording the proceedings.

A bench of Justice AK Goel and Justice UU Lalit, which is overseeing the installation of CCTV in courts, clarified the position after Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand apprised it of the progress made on this front.

“Great work,” said the bench expressing satisfaction at the progress made in installation of CCTVs in various courts and tribunals. The move is supported by theLaw Ministry. 

However, Amicus Curiae Sidharth Luthra raised certain concerns regarding identity of victims coming to court and protected witnesses. He said it has to be ensured that CCTV recordings were not leaked.

The bench posted the matter for further hearing on April 4.

Another bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra had last week sought Attorney General KK Venugopal’s assistance in deciding petitions seeking live telecast of important cases, particularly Constitution Bench matters.

It had directed that copies of the petitions be given to the central agency to enable the Attorney General to assist it in the important matter.

The direction had come after petitioners -- senior Advocate Indira Jaising and advocate Mathews Nedumpara – explained to the bench the importance of live streaming of court proceedings.

Asserting that right to receive information is a fundamental right under Article 19 (1) (a) of the Constitution, senior advocate Indira Jaising had on January 18 moved the Supreme Court seeking live telecast of important cases, particularly Constitution Bench matters.

She has demanded that pending availability of infrastructure for live streaming, important cases before Constitution Bench such as Aadhaar, Sabarimala Temple, homosexuality, adultery and Parsi women’s right to equality be recorded and uploaded on its own YouTube channel.