Hidden cameras pose privacy and security concerns

Hyderabad: A series of incidents involving hidden cameras in private spaces, from washrooms in educational institutions to hotel rooms and trial rooms in shopping malls, have sent shockwaves through society, sparking widespread protests and a sense of vulnerability.

Recently, a hidden camera was found in the washroom of an engineering college in Andhra Pradesh. The incident, along with similar incidents in Telangana, cast a shadow over public and private spaces, raising serious concerns about women’s safety and privacy.

“Every time I enter the trial room now, I feel a knot in my stomach. I keep checking for hidden cameras, but the anxiety never goes away. It’s like you can’t trust any public space anymore,” said Anusha, a university student from Kukatpally.

“The incident in Andhra Pradesh is horrific. I always double check public spaces. It shouldn’t be our responsibility, but I can’t take any chances,” said Kalyani, a teacher from Secunderabad.

Responding to these alarming developments, She Teams Deputy Commissioner (DCP) Kavitha Dara said that many strict measures are already being taken in the city.

She said a comprehensive inspection drive has been launched across Hyderabad, focusing on shopping malls, hotels and other vulnerable areas. The initiative, which began during the Independence Day celebrations, involves random checks to ensure that hidden cameras are not detected.

The police, in collaboration with the Education Department and National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, are creating awareness about the dangers of hidden cameras and encouraging people to report suspicious activity. Kavitha Dara emphasized that these random checks will continue and more measures will be taken to enhance security.

To combat the hidden camera menace, G Varalakshmi, founder of the Haven Homes Society, has been instrumental in raising awareness and advocating for legal reforms through their “Anti-Red Eye” campaign. Launched in 2017, the campaign has gained significant traction across Telangana with the support of various government departments.
Varalakshmi advocated a multi-pronged approach to solving the problem. She emphasized the need for a systematic crackdown and stricter regulations on the sale of spy cameras.

“We should consider setting up “women protection centres” at every mandal level, equipped with closed circuit security video networks in educational institutions and hostels and directly linked to district authorities for real-time monitoring,” she suggested.

“We need stricter laws, more regular inspections and a culture that will not tolerate these violations,” Varalakshmi asserted. Despite these efforts, a sense of unease continues among residents.

“I appreciate the steps the government is taking, but the fear is still there,” said Radhika, a resident of Banjara Hills. “Whenever I enter a dressing room or enter a hotel, I can’t help but worry. We need tougher laws and more awareness to really tackle this problem.”

The government’s proactive stance is a promising start, but as hidden camera technology becomes more sophisticated and accessible, the challenge of ensuring security and privacy is far from over.