Supreme Court’s Suo Motu on Non-Functional CCTV Cameras in Police Stations – A Timely Judicial Intervention
The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, on 4th September 2025, under the bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta, has rightly taken suo motu cognizance on the alarming issue of non-functional CCTV cameras in police stations across the country. This intervention was prompted by disturbing media reports that 11 custodial deaths have occurred within the last 7–8 months, exposing grave lapses in accountability and transparency within our law enforcement system.
It must be remembered that in Paramvir Singh Saini v. Baljit Singh (2020), the Supreme Court had categorically mandated the installation of functional CCTV cameras in all police stations and directed both State and Union Territory governments to ensure strict compliance. Sadly, even after nearly five years, compliance remains patchy, cameras lie defunct, and custodial deaths continue to stain the conscience of our democracy.
Highly Appreciable Observation by the Court:
The Hon’ble Bench observed that the persistence of custodial deaths, despite clear judicial directions, is a matter of serious constitutional concern, and that the very purpose of installing CCTV cameras—ensuring accountability, transparency, and the protection of fundamental rights—has been reduced to a mere formality in several states. The Court’s recognition of this grim reality and its decision to intervene suo motu reflect an unwavering judicial commitment to uphold Article 21 – Right to Life and Human Dignity.
Strong Review by Dr. Anthony Raju (Leading Constitutional Expert & Human Rights Defender):
“Custodial violence is not merely a violation of human rights—it is a direct assault on the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court’s timely intervention once again reminds governments of their constitutional duty to protect citizens, not persecute them. The continued failure to implement CCTV surveillance in police stations, despite repeated judicial directions, reflects systemic apathy and disregard for accountability. It is imperative that strict compliance is enforced, erring officials are held responsible, and real-time monitoring mechanisms are put in place. Human dignity and the rule of law cannot be compromised.”
This suo motu notice must act as a wake-up call for both the executive and law enforcement agencies. The sanctity of Article 21 and the principle of zero tolerance towards custodial deaths demand urgent and non-negotiable compliance.
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