Srinagar, Aug 1: The District Magistrate Baramulla has directed all commercial establishments and telecom service providers in the district to install or upgrade CCTV surveillance systems within 30 days, citing the prevailing security situation and the need to strengthen surveillance.
According to Order No. 29-DMB/2026, issued on August 1 under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the directions have been issued on the recommendations of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Baramulla.
The order states that CCTV surveillance at commercial establishments, markets and other public places has significantly enhanced monitoring, aided criminal investigations and helped prevent criminal and subversive activities across the district.
It notes that, in view of incidents of theft, drug peddling, narcotics-related activities, vandalism and the movement of suspicious elements, there is a need to further strengthen the surveillance mechanism in Baramulla.
The SSP Baramulla, in a communication dated May 9, informed the district administration that nearly 65 to 70 per cent of commercial establishments in the district have not yet installed CCTV cameras.
The police recommended that such establishments install high-resolution cameras and that those already equipped with CCTV systems expand their coverage to include nearby roads, access lanes, and entry and exit points.
The order further states that during a meeting of the District Level Security Review Committee (DLSRC), telecom tower sites were identified as critical infrastructure due to their role in communication during emergencies, disasters and law and order situations. The police observed that these sites remain vulnerable to sabotage, theft and other security threats, and recommended installation or augmentation of CCTV surveillance at all telecom tower sites across the district.
Under the directions, all commercial establishments without CCTV cameras must install an adequate number of high-resolution cameras to ensure complete visual coverage of their premises, including surrounding roads, lanes and access points.
Establishments that already have CCTV systems have been instructed to enhance their surveillance network by installing additional cameras wherever necessary.
Similarly, all telecom service providers and operators have been directed to install or upgrade CCTV surveillance systems at and around their telecom tower sites as a security measure.
The administration has also mandated that all CCTV systems remain operational round the clock, including during non-business hours, and maintain recorded footage for a minimum of 30 days.
The order directs all owners and proprietors of commercial establishments and telecom operators to comply within 30 days from the date of issuance.
It warns that any violation or non-compliance will invite action under the relevant provisions of law.
The Senior Superintendent of Police, Baramulla, and the Senior Superintendent of Police, Sopore, have been tasked with ensuring effective implementation and monitoring of the order.
