Tirupati temple to use facial recognition system for darshan from today: How it works

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has introduced face recognition technology in Tirumala on an experimental basis from today, March 1, 2023, onwards.

The face recognition technology would be first introduced at Sarvadarshan (free darshan) counters, laddu counters and accommodation centres in the hill town and will be extended to other pilgrim services in a phased manner, TOI reported citing sources.

According to the report, the new technology would help the Tirupati temple administration (TTD admin) deny services to people who try to repeatedly come for darshan, while other devotees have to wait for a long time.


To avoid any confusion, the TTD has clarified that devotees will be allowed to have free darshan once a month. Anyone trying to have free darshan more than a certain number of times within a month would be restricted with the help of face recognition technology, a TTD official told TOI.

Moreover, this same technology could be used in the allocation of rooms to genuine devotees at subsidised rentals, allowing the admin to deal with the nuisance of touts and middlemen who book rooms and later sell them to devotees at exorbitant rates.

Here's how it works:
Face recognition technology uses software to classify a single face based on gender, age, emotion, and features. It also determines the similarity between two facial images in order to evaluate a claim. The technology is commonly used in phones, where users unlock them by using the image of their face.

The technology works by using computer-generated filters that analyse the face images in the form of numerical expressions and compare them with other images to achieve the result. The technology has been rapidly improving and has achieved a great degree of performance.

What about the dangers of this technology?
According to another TOI report, the lack of a specific law to regulate the use of Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) could be a major source of concern. The rampant use of this technology came into the limelight after several clubs and gated communities in Hyderabad started using it at entry and exit points.

Data security experts have flagged Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) used to authenticate entry through digital database verification in gated communities and clubs run by private parties.

In the absence of a regulatory mechanism, the privacy of faces, fingerprints, and other biometrics collected and stored is at risk, TOI reported, citing experts.

Security automation companies, however, claim these devices are not connected to the internet, but linked to Local Area Network (LAN) and the data is encrypted.

Data security researcher Srinivas Kodali told TOI, "Restricting movement through the unbridled use of FRT infringes on an individual's fundamental right to privacy. The technology lacks safeguards and is being introduced in private spaces and employment contracts. Gated communities should be aware that they are equally liable for damages in case of data breach."

Meanwhile, Tamanapdui Abhilash of Redfence Automation asserted, "Facial recognition devices are connected to turnstile gates through a relay system. Devices available in India are powered by Chinese technology and cost around Rs 30,000–40,000. Those manufactured in the West or made-in-India may cost a little more.

He also reiterated that facial data is encrypted and cannot be downloaded. "The computer runs on a software, where names and entry times will be sent. A photo can be uploaded to make a database. but it will not read photos for entry or exit. The algorithm can only detect a live presence," he added.

The ministry of home affairs had clarified in the Lok Sabha that electronic records and manner of collection or storage of personal data, including facial recognition, are regulated by the Information Technology Act, 2000.