CCTV project will not compromise privacy of citizens, assures CM's office

NEW DELHI: The Delhi government on Monday has said that the CCTV camera installation project will not compromise with citizen's right to privacy and is only meant to ensure the safety and security of the residents.

The Chief Minister's office in a statement said, "The Delhi government is of the clear view that ensuring safety and security of citizens is the primary responsibility of any government elected by the people. It is not fair when the residents have to spend their own money on installing basic safety devices like CCTVs and it should be the government's duty."

The statement from the Chief Minister's office came after it observed that the 'vested interests' are making attempts to spread misinformation through a 'motivated campaign', giving rise to reasonable suspicion that big private players, who have lost the tender bid to a public sector enterprise could be behind the entire mischief.

"Ill-informed doubts are being spread that the CCTV cameras installation could lead to a breach of privacy and alarming terms like surveillance have been linked to this project without any basis and evidence," the statement said.

"Nothing can be farther from the truth and this lie is being spread in order to delay and derail this project. It is inconceivable that a project to ensure safety and security will compromise what the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India has declared to be a fundamental right," it further noted.

The statement further said, "Anyone familiar with CCTV cameras in residential areas is fully aware that these cameras are installed at entry/exit gates and parking areas or wherever residents express apprehensions of being theft-prone areas.

"CCTV cameras have been installed in NDMC residential areas and through MLA Local Area Development Funds in different areas. There has not been a single complaint on privacy concerns since these cameras are installed in public places and not in private premises."

Clarifying that who will maintain and control the CCTV feed, the statement said, "The best option available is that the local residents (through their authorised and duly elected resident welfare associations) provide the electricity connection, the bill which will be reimbursed by the government to them, and the proposed system to be used for keeping the CCTV feed will be clearly agreed upon by residents, police, the elected representative and the service provider."