Private CCTV cameras can't be positioned to invade neighbour’s privacy: Allahabad High Court

The Allahabad High Court recently observed that no one can install or position a private CCTV camera in a manner that interferes with the privacy of their neighbour [Yogendra Maurya v. State of UP].

A Division Bench comprising Justice Ajit Kumar and Justice Garima Prashad observed that such surveillance of a neighbour’s residential premises would amount to an infringement of privacy.

“No private CCTV camera can be installed and positioned in such a manner as to interfere with the privacy of a neighbour," the Court said.

The High Court was hearing a writ petition filed by one Yogendra Maurya, who alleged that his neighbour had positioned a CCTV camera in a manner that exposed the entry and exit points of his house and interfered with the privacy of persons visiting or leaving the premise.

He contended that this amounted to a violation of his privacy.

The Court noted that no private CCTV camera can be installed and positioned in such a manner as to interfere with the privacy of a neighbour.

However, did not issue any direction for the removal of the CCTV camera. Instead, it closed the writ petition by directing the petitioner to file an appropriate application before the concerned District Magistrate for relief.

The Bench further directed that if such an application for the CCTV camera's removal is filed, the District Magistrate shall consider and decide the same within one month.

Advocate Akhilesh Singh Yadav appeared on behalf of the petitioner.

[Read Order]