Can't Snoop On Neighbours In Guise Of Installing CCTV Cameras For Security: Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court on Tuesday made a prima facie view that no one should be permitted to snoop into the affairs of their neighbours, in the guise of installing CCTV cameras for security.

Justice V.G. Arun thus directed the State Police Chief to come out with appropriate guidelines regarding the manner in which CCTV cameras are to be installed, in consultation with the State government.

"I am of the prima facie opinion that, in the guise of installing CCTV surveillance cameras for security reasons, individuals should not be permitted to snoop into the affairs of their neighbours. The situation calls for issuance of orders or guidelines dealing with the manner in which CCTV cameras are to be installed. It is for the State Police Chief to come out with appropriate guidelines in this regard, in consultation with the State Government. The State Police Chief is therefore suo motu impleaded as the additional 5th respondent", the Court observed. 

The writ petition had been filed by a person who was aggrieved by the installation of CCTV Surveillance Camera by his neighbour that was allegedly focused towards the former's compound and residence. 

The Government Pleader was directed to make a copy of the instant order available to the SPC, and to convey the concern expressed by the Court in this regard. 

The matter has been posted for further consideration after a month. 

The petitioner is represented by Advocates K.R. Vinod, M.S. Letha, Chithra C. Edadan, and Nabil Khader. 

Case Title: Agnes Michale v. Cheranalloor Grama Panchayat & Ors. 

Click Here To Read/Download The Order