How body cameras can start a new era of crime scene procedures after BNS

Investigating officers in the Delhi Police believe body-worn video (BWV) cameras could simplify procedures mandated by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). These cameras could address challenges officers face in recording crime scenes with their mobile phones.

Mandatory Recording Requirements Under BNSS
The BNSS requires video recording in various situations:

• Section 105 mandates video recording of searches and seizures.
• Section 172 makes videography mandatory for cases involving women victims.
• Section 176(3) requires videography of crime scenes for offenses punishable with seven years or more.
• Section 180 mandates recording the examination of witnesses by police.

Officers often find it challenging to manage phone recordings while handling incoming calls and uploading footage.

Practical Challenges Faced by Officers
Officers have expressed concerns about the practical challenges of using mobile phones for recording. One officer mentioned, “I received back-to-back calls from my superiors just when I reached the crime scene and started recording. When I brought this up with my seniors, I was told to record after putting the phone in flight mode. Now, I am planning to keep a separate phone for this.”

Others worry that using mobile phones may unsettle witnesses. BWV cameras could alleviate these issues by providing a seamless recording process.

Expert Endorsements and Western Practices
A retired senior police officer highlighted the potential benefits of BWV cameras, stating that Western police forces consider them essential equipment. “These cameras even act as independent witnesses, providing crucial evidence during arrests and at crime scenes,” he noted.

Studies show that BWV cameras lead to statistically significant reductions in citizen complaints and use-of-force reports. The UK's Metropolitan Police (Met) serves as a successful example, using BWV cameras that capture a continuous 30-second audio and video loop, which activates manually by the officer.

For police forces in the West, BWV cameras are not turned on for routine patrols but are activated for specific incidents. A flashing red light indicates recording, and officers inform people that they are being recorded. The cameras are used while gathering evidence, promoting transparency during police actions, and assisting in writing reports or verifying facts.

Previous Attempts and Future Plans
The concept of body cameras is not entirely new to Delhi Police. A proposal for the use of such cameras was initiated in 2016, financed by the Nirbhaya Fund. However, the traffic police's 1,000 cameras malfunctioned nearly two years ago and have not been repaired due to a lack of maintenance contracts. Currently, no traffic officers wear such cameras.

To move forward, sources suggest that the department should propose the use of BWV cameras to the Union Home Ministry, addressing previous shortcomings and ensuring proper maintenance contracts.

(With inputs from TOI)