SC guidelines for installation of CCTVs in district courts

NEW DELHI: In a recent order, the Supreme Court has directed the state governments to timely provide funds for the installation of CCTV cameras in district court complexes.

A bench comprising Justices S. Ravindra Bhat and Dipankar Datta noted that it is appalling that court premises in the national capital itself have witnessed at least three major incidents of gunfire.

The top court said that it is critical that judicial institutions take comprehensive steps to safeguard the well-being of all stakeholders.

"Such incidents, that too on court premises, are deeply concerning and pose significant risks to the safety of not only judges but lawyers, court staff, litigants, and the general public," it said.

"Would not hope for the litigants who visit the temples of justice dwindle if the very halls of justice lack the shield of security? How can the litigants secure justice for them when those entrusted to render justice are themselves insecure?" the bench asked in its order.

The Supreme Court emphasised that the installation of CCTV cameras should be an integral part of the construction of courts.

In the set of new guidelines, it said that security measures at entry-exit points within court complexes should be secured by constant monitoring.

It asked the state governments to ensure that emergency measures like ambulances, medical facilities, and firefighting services are immediately available within court complexes.

It directed the timely implementation of the security plan at the district-level courts, including courts in outlying areas.

The security plan proposes the setting up of permanent Court Security Units in each complex, like strength of armed or unarmed personnel, etc.

The Supreme Court was considering a contempt proceeding that alleged non-compliance with its earlier directions relating to the installation of CCTV cameras in court complexes.

In July 2021, an Additional Sessions Judge posted at Dhanbad in Jharkhand was crushed to death, allegedly by an auto-rickshaw, while taking a morning walk.

The apex court sought a preliminary action-taken report through the High Courts by October 10. (IANS)

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