Srinagar, Aug 3 (JKNS): In a major security and crime prevention measure, the District Magistrate Shopian has made the installation, operation and maintenance of CCTV surveillance systems mandatory for banks, commercial establishments, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, hotels, religious places and other public-facing establishments across the district.
According to an order issued by District Magistrate Shishir Gupta, IAS, a copy of which lies with news agency JKNS, the directive has been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, in view of the need to strengthen public safety, crime prevention, maintenance of public order and protection of life and property.
The order states that advancements in CCTV surveillance technology have significantly improved the ability of law enforcement agencies to prevent, detect and investigate criminal activities, regulate crowds, manage traffic, safeguard public assets and collect reliable electronic evidence for investigation and prosecution.
The administration observed that the absence of adequate surveillance mechanisms at several establishments hampers timely identification of offenders and affects the investigation of offences including theft, vandalism, trespass, anti-social activities, unlawful assemblies, public nuisance and other incidents affecting public safety.
As per the order, all covered establishments must install functional CCTV surveillance systems within 15 days from the date of issuance of the order.
The order applies to banks, financial institutions, ATMs, jewellery shops, petrol pumps, shopping complexes, commercial establishments, retail stores, hotels, guest houses, restaurants, educational institutions, coaching centres, hospitals, nursing homes, diagnostic centres, religious places, cinema halls, sports facilities, transport hubs, government offices, warehouses, storage facilities and other notified public establishments.
The CCTV systems must cover all entry and exit points, reception areas, cash counters, corridors, staircases, parking areas, storage facilities and surrounding approach roads to the maximum technically feasible extent.
The administration has directed that CCTV systems should remain operational 24×7, with high-quality recording capability, date and time stamping, night vision wherever required, uninterrupted power backup and proper maintenance at all times.
The order further mandates that CCTV recordings shall be preserved for a minimum of 30 days and must be produced before police, investigating agencies or other competent authorities whenever lawfully demanded.
The responsibility for installation, operation and maintenance of CCTV systems has been placed on the owners, occupiers, managers, institution heads or authorised representatives of the respective establishments.
The Senior Superintendent of Police, Shopian, has been directed to ensure effective implementation through all Station House Officers, who will conduct regular inspections, maintain compliance records and submit periodic reports to the District Administration.
The District Magistrate has also directed the District Information Officer, Municipal Council, Executive Magistrates, Tehsildars and other concerned departments to give wide publicity to the order through print, electronic and social media platforms.
The order warns that any person or establishment violating or failing to comply with the directions shall be liable for prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, in addition to any other action permissible under law.
The order has come into force with immediate effect and shall remain operative for 60 days, unless modified, withdrawn or extended earlier in accordance with law. (JKNS)
