PIL in SC challenges Delhi Police's FRT use at Jantar Mantar protest
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi Police's use of facial recognition technology (FRT) and biometric surveillance at Jantar Mantar protests. The petition argues that such surveillance violates fundamental rights to privacy, free speech, and peaceful assembly under the Constitution.
Background
Jantar Mantar in Delhi is a designated protest site where citizens often gather to voice grievances. The Delhi Police has been using facial recognition technology to identify protesters, raising concerns about surveillance and privacy. The Supreme Court has previously recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right in the Puttaswamy judgment (2017).
Key facts
A PIL in the Supreme Court challenges Delhi Police's use of facial recognition and biometric surveillance at Jantar Mantar protests.
The petition alleges violation of fundamental rights to privacy, free speech, and peaceful assembly under the Constitution.
Facial recognition technology (FRT) is used to identify individuals in crowds by matching facial features against databases.
The PIL argues that such surveillance is disproportionate and lacks legal framework.
Jantar Mantar is a historic site in Delhi commonly used for peaceful protests.
The Supreme Court has previously ruled on privacy rights in the Justice K.S. Puttaswamy case.
Prelims pointers
- Facial Recognition Technology (FRT)
- Right to Privacy (Article 21)
- Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19(1)(a))
- Right to Peaceful Assembly (Article 19(1)(b))
- Puttaswamy judgment (2017)
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
- Supreme Court of India
- Delhi Police
- Jantar Mantar, Delhi
Mains angles
- Discuss the balance between national security and fundamental rights in the context of surveillance technologies.
- Critically examine the legal framework governing the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement in India.
- Analyze the implications of biometric surveillance on the right to privacy and freedom of assembly.