The Bhubaneswar Police Commissioner requests that the person in charge of the station reception counter wear body cameras

28-Oct-2024, 11:21 AM

In a decisive move to enhance accountability and transparency within the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate, all personnel stationed at police station reception desks are now required to wear body cameras. This initiative, announced by Commissioner of Police S. Dev Datta Singh, is part of a broader strategy to monitor interactions between police officers and the public, particularly in light of recent allegations of misconduct. The decision comes in response to serious incidents involving police personnel, including the alleged sexual harassment of a woman and the mistreatment of an Army officer and his fiancée at the Bharatpur police station. These events have raised significant concerns about police conduct and the treatment of individuals visiting police stations. The introduction of body cameras aims to deter inappropriate behavior from both officers and visitors, ensuring that all interactions are recorded for accountability purposes. Key Features of the Body Camera Initiative:

Real-Time Monitoring: The body cameras will capture both audio and video recordings, allowing for real-time monitoring of interactions at reception desks. This feature is expected to provide immediate alerts to the control room in case of any incidents, enhancing response times and operational efficiency.
Data Storage: Recordings from the body cameras will be retained for a minimum of one month. This archival process ensures that there is a reliable record available for review in case of complaints or disputes regarding behavior during interactions
Training and Conduct: Police personnel have been instructed to maintain a courteous and empathetic demeanor when dealing with the public. This training is essential to foster a respectful environment within police stations and to ensure that officers act in accordance with legal standards during their duties.
Addressing Misconduct: The initiative also aims to document any inappropriate behavior exhibited by visitors towards police personnel. By having a clear record, the police can address issues more effectively and uphold standards of conduct on both sides.

This implementation marks a significant step towards modernizing policing practices in Odisha, aligning with efforts to build public trust and improve community relations. As part of ongoing reforms, the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate is committed to leveraging technology to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations.