Supreme Court Mandates CCTV Compliance in Police Stations Nationwide

States and Union Territories Given Three Weeks to File Compliance Affidavits or Face Court Appearance

In a significant move aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within police stations across India, the Supreme Court has issued a directive for the installation and functionality of closed-circuit television cameras (CCTVs) in police stations. The judgment, pronounced on November 25, 2025, by the bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, highlights the Supreme Court's commitment to ensuring adherence to previous orders concerning CCTV deployment.

The court acknowledged that only 11 States have filed compliance affidavits in response to the Suo Moto Writ Petition (Civil) No(s). 7 of 2025, which underscores the necessity for functional CCTVs in police precincts. This petition aims to address the lack of operational CCTVs, which are crucial for monitoring activities within police stations and safeguarding the rights of individuals in custody.

The Solicitor General, Mr. Tushar Mehta, representing the Union of India, requested additional time to submit the compliance affidavit. The court acceded to this request, granting three more weeks for all States and Union Territories to file their affidavits. Justice Nath emphasized that failure to comply by the stipulated deadline would result in the Principal Secretary, Department of Home Affairs, or Directors of the respective agencies appearing before the court to explain the non-compliance.

The court further indicated that these matters would be listed again on December 16, 2025. By this date, the compliance affidavits must be filed, failing which the aforementioned officials will be required to appear in court.

Mr. Siddhartha Dave, who has been serving as the amicus curiae in the Paramvir Singh Saini case, will extend his assistance to the court in this Suo Moto petition and other related cases. His expertise is expected to facilitate the court in overseeing the implementation process effectively.

This directive is a continuation of the Supreme Court's efforts to uphold the rule of law and ensure that police stations are equipped with functional surveillance systems. These systems are pivotal in maintaining transparency and protecting the rights of individuals, especially those under police custody, thereby preventing any form of abuse or misconduct.

The judgment serves as a reminder of the judicial system's role in safeguarding public interest and holding governmental bodies accountable for the implementation of security measures. As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the states and union territories as they race to comply with the Supreme Court's orders.

Bottom Line:

Compliance with installation and functionality of CCTVs in police stations directed - States/Union Territories required to file compliance affidavits - Principle Secretary, Department of Home Affairs or Directors of respective agencies to appear in case of non-compliance.

Statutory provision(s):  

• - Compliance with installation and functionality of CCTVs in police stations  
• - Suo Moto Writ Petition (Civil) No(s). 7 of 2025

In Re Lack of Functional CCTVS In Police Stations, (SC) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2812500