Bhubaneswar Police Implement Body Cameras After Allegations of Misconduct

The Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate in Odisha has mandated body cameras for personnel at police station reception desks following allegations of misconduct. This initiative aims to enhance accountability and transparency in police interactions, addressing recent allegations of sexual harassment involving an army officer and inappropriate behavior by officers.

In a significant move to enhance accountability, the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate in Odisha has mandated all personnel at police station reception desks to wear body cameras. This decision comes in response to recent allegations of sexual harassment involving an army officer's fiancée and mistreatment of the officer by police officers at Bharatpur police station.

The introduction of body cameras aims to ensure transparency and improve interactions between police officers and visitors. Police Commissioner S. Dev Datta Singh stated that this initiative would monitor behavior at police stations, fostering a culture of respect and professionalism. Several police stations in Bhubaneswar have already begun implementing this directive.

The push for body cameras was influenced by several incidents, including a reported case where a woman behaved inappropriately towards police officers at Khandagiri police station. The Commissioner emphasized the importance of maintaining a polite and sympathetic demeanor among police personnel when dealing with the public.

The body cameras will not only document interactions but also provide real-time alerts to the control room, which will improve response times to incidents. The audio-visual recordings will be retained for at least one month, allowing for thorough investigations if allegations of misconduct arise.

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The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Pinak Mishra, noted that both officers and visitors have, at times, behaved improperly, and the body cameras aim to create a more respectful environment for all. By recording conversations and interactions, the initiative seeks to protect the rights of citizens while holding police personnel accountable for their actions.