Install CCTV in restaurant kitchens to ensure compliance of COVID-19 guidelines: Delhi HC asks Centre to consider representation

The Delhi High Court today directed Central Government to consider a petition seeking installation of CCTV cameras in the kitchen of all restaurants that are delivering food as a representation..According to the petition, installation of CCTV cameras will facilitate scrutiny of the kitchen's video recording for compliance of guidelines on prevention of COVID-19..The order was passed by a Division Bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan..In her petition, Petitioner Tisha Mahajan informed the Court that on May 17, restaurants in all zones of Delhi were permitted to be opened for take-out and delivery. .Such a situation, the Petitioner asserted, exponentially increased the possibility of transmission by way of food packaging and associated material..In furtherance of the public’s right to know whether a restaurant was following all the government norms and guidelines on COVID-19, the Petitioner suggested installation of CCTV cameras in the kitchen and food preparation areas of restaurants..This would not only create a record for the authorities but in some cases, live feed could also be made visible from outside for customers to test if COVID-19 norms were being followed, it was stated. .“The idea is to spread the message that restaurant owners have nothing to hide from customers, who are happy to record the activities inside the kitchen and also show it live to its customers and make sure that the guidelines given by the government are being met. It is envisioned that this will also make customers feel safe and aware that their food is prepared in a clean, safe and monitored environment given the current coronavirus pandemic..”, the Petition reads..Apart from installation of CCTV camera, the Petitioner also sought a direction to the Central Government to issue directions to restaurants to store recordings for a minimum period of six months..A direction was also sought to the Delhi Government to ensure that the above-mentioned Rules are followed by the establishments in the city. .After hearing the Petitioner, the Court directed that the Petitioner's grievance be considered as a representation. .While deciding the representation, the authorities concerned shall keep in mind the suggestion made by the Petitioner with respect to installation of CCTV in kitchens, the Court said..The Petitioner was represented by Advocates Namita Roy, Abhijit Acharya.