How will Delhi Police's body-worn cameras function during protests? Understanding the technology

Amidst the protests in Delhi, a specific device attached to police uniforms has become a topic of discussion. Resembling a walkie-talkie, this device is actually a body-worn camera. Let’s understand the technology behind it.

Questions are being raised regarding police actions and their conduct towards protesters during demonstrations in Delhi. Amidst this, a small device worn on the uniforms of police personnel on duty in the capital has drawn attention. At first glance, it looks like a walkie-talkie, but its function is to record events rather than facilitate communication.

The Delhi Police has issued these devices to personnel managing security at protest sites and on roads leading to the Election Commission of India's office. This raises questions about how the technology works and what role it plays in crowd control. Let us explore how the Delhi Police's body-worn cameras will operate during protests.

What are body-worn cameras?

These small cameras attached to uniforms are known as body-worn cameras. They are typically mounted on the officer's chest, shoulder, or near the collar. Despite their compact size, these cameras can record both video and audio. They enable the recording of incidents, conversations, and police actions while on duty. These cameras are particularly useful in situations where police must manage large crowds or when conflicting claims arise regarding a specific incident.

How will the Delhi Police's body-worn cameras function?

Police personnel can manually switch these body-worn cameras on or off as needed. Some models also feature technology that automatically activates the camera during specific activities. These features can include the detection of actions such as drawing a weapon, running, or sudden physical impact, though the specific capabilities depend on the camera model. The batteries in these devices can operate for several hours. Additionally, data encryption is employed to safeguard the recorded information, helping to ensure the security of the video footage.

Why did the demand for mandatory body cameras arise?

Amidst the protests, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Delhi High Court. It sought to make body-worn cameras mandatory for personnel from the Delhi Police and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed for crowd control, protest management, and crowd dispersal. The petition also called for the formulation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the cameras remain active continuously from the start to the end of a shift; however, the Delhi High Court declined to issue a directive mandating the use of these cameras, leaving the decision to the government.