CISF personnel to have body cameras at 59 airports

New Delhi, Jan 23: By the end of March, CISF personnel at 59 airports across the country are expected to have miniature cameras fitted on their uniforms, quietly keeping a tab on all that happens around them. The much-awaited Rs 3 crore project for the purchase of 500 cameras is under the bidding process.

The camera, fitted on the upper body of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel, mostly on the shoulders, will record high quality audio and video. It will greatly help to know who was right and who was in the wrong in the event of disputes between passengers and the security personnel. The gadget will also improve security at the airports as it will film every passenger going through the frisking process — and more. The step of buying such cameras — each costing around Rs 60,000 — was initiated by CISF Director General O.P. Singh, who on Monday moved to Uttar Pradesh to be the Director General of Police there.

“The plan was initiated by him to ensure better surveillance at airports. The device can be checked later for both audio and video evidence,” CISF Assistant Inspector General Hemendra Singh told IANS. He said some passengers engaged in needless arguments with the CISF personnel during frisking and at times even used abusive language or made derogatory remarks. On top of it, they also lodged complaints against the CISF personnel, accusing them of misbehaviour, Singh said. Absence of evidence at times leads to unpleasant situations.

“Now, this camera will allow the CISF personnel to carry out their duties without any fear or hindrance.” Singh said the process of buying these cameras was underway and would hopefully be completed by March-end. The move to install the miniature cameras, a common feature in Western countries, follows a successful three-month trial run conducted by the CISF at the Delhi and Mumbai airports, with three such gadgets at each city. (IANS)