Supreme Court Orders CCTV in Courts for Transparency & Public Trials

The Supreme Court directed the installation of CCTV cameras in courts in two districts of every State/Union Territory to enhance transparency and governance. It emphasized the importance of public trials for fair justice administration. Privacy concerns were addressed, noting that footage would not be publicly accessible. High Courts' jurisdiction to supervise subordinate courts was discussed, with a focus on the benefits of audio recording. The Court mandated uniform technical specifications and pricing for installation, extending the requirement to Tribunals. High Courts were required to submit installation progress reports, with further monitoring scheduled.

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Issues:
Installation of CCTV cameras in courts, privacy concerns of judicial officers, necessity of audio recording, jurisdiction of High Courts, technical specifications and cost of installation.

Analysis:
The Supreme Court directed the installation of CCTV cameras in courts in two districts of every State/Union Territory, excluding small states. The purpose was to promote transparency and good governance. The Court emphasized the importance of public trials for fair administration of justice, citing past judgments. Reports were received from various High Courts regarding the installation progress. The Union of India highlighted the utility of CCTV cameras and the need for audio recording to assist in monitoring court proceedings.

Regarding privacy concerns, it was argued that as court proceedings are open to all, there should be no issue with CCTV cameras. The Court acknowledged the reservations expressed by some High Courts but emphasized the benefits of CCTV cameras in advancing the interest of justice. It was noted that the footage would not be available under the Right to Information Act without the High Court's permission.

The Court also discussed the jurisdiction of High Courts under Article 235 of the Constitution to supervise subordinate courts. It was suggested that audio recording, in addition to video, could aid in the exercise of this power. The Court found the installation of CCTV cameras to be in the interest of justice and directed the Union of India to extend this to Tribunals as well.

There was a variance in the cost and technical specifications for installation across different regions. To address this, the Court directed the Union of India to lay down uniform technical specifications, pricing, and retention period for audio and video recordings within one month. It was decided that CCTV cameras should be installed in all subordinate courts and Tribunals, with a schedule to be determined by the High Courts.

High Courts that had not submitted their reports were instructed to do so promptly. The Secretary General of the Court was tasked with monitoring the receipt of this information. The matter was listed for further consideration on a specified date.

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