The Business Bytes
Bhubaneswar, July 31, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a landmark move towards enhancing transparency, accountability, and human rights protection within the state’s criminal justice system, a comprehensive network of 11,907 CCTV cameras has been activated across 593 police stations in 30 districts of Odisha. This vast surveillance network, overseen by Volksara Techno Solutions, a subsidiary of the Krystal Group, is designed to provide real-time monitoring and recording of activities within the police stations and their surrounding areas.
The installation of these cameras follows a directive issued by the Supreme Court in December 2020, mandating the implementation of such systems to ensure greater accountability in law enforcement. The surveillance network will monitor 38 Superintendent of Police (SP) and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) offices through a Video Management System, with centralized oversight provided by a Central Management System at the Director General of Police (DGP) Office.
Saily Lad, Founder and Director of Volksara Techno Solutions Pvt. Ltd., highlighted the project’s goals, saying, “The surveillance system is focused on transparency and ensuring the safety of police and citizens alike. It is also designed to allow swift incident response. This initiative highlights our dedication to bringing innovative and reliable security solutions. Our aim is to create a safer and peaceful environment for all residents of Odisha. We are committed to maintaining strict security standards and using advanced technology to positively impact public safety and well-being.”
The AI-powered cameras, installed inside police stations and covering the SP cabins, compounds, and perimeters, will operate 24/7. They will record all activities and interactions at the SP offices, with audio-visual footage retrievable from the central command center when needed. This system is intended to create a fair record of activities within the police stations, promoting transparency and deterring possible misconduct. It aims to safeguard the rights of accused individuals, detainees, and undertrials, thereby enhancing trust in law enforcement.
Sarathi Malik, Senior System Analyst from the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC), emphasized the collaborative effort behind this initiative, stating, “As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, in collaboration with Volksara Techno Solutions, we are accelerating the installation of CCTV cameras across all 593 police stations. This initiative, guided by OCAC professionals, underscores our dedication to leveraging advanced technology to enhance oversight and ensure the safety of all stakeholders within our law enforcement system. By deploying AI-powered surveillance systems, we aim to foster a secure environment and uphold the highest standards of public trust and integrity.”
Since the pilot project began on March 31, 2022, the surveillance system has already complied with numerous requests for footage from various district SP offices, demonstrating its efficacy and utility. A team of 38 Volksara engineers and technicians ensures the smooth operation of the system, while three additional teams work at the central command center at the DGP office. Furthermore, the team is involved in training qualified police personnel to manage and operate the system, ensuring sustainable and effective use of the technology.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in Odisha’s efforts to modernize its law enforcement capabilities, ensuring a more transparent, accountable, and human-rights-respecting police force.
