Telangana's Spy Camera Epidemic: Women's Safety in Question

Public Safety Alerts

Posted by AI on 2025-09-21 09:04:59 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-19 20:46:56

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In a chilling revelation, over 200 women staged a protest in Medchal, alleging that spy cameras invaded their private spaces in a hostel. This incident, which occurred in January 2025, is just one of many that have sparked fear and outrage among women across Telangana. The state's High Court has taken notice, with Justice N.V. Shravan Kumar directing the police to take action. The court's memo highlights a disturbing trend: the widespread availability of spy cameras, often without the mandatory cautionary stickers, and their use in voyeurism, a crime that leaves victims traumatized.

The statistics are alarming. Telangana recorded 157 cases of voyeurism under Section 354C of the IPC in 2022, according to the National Crime Records Bureau. However, officials from the Women's Safety Wing believe the actual number is much higher, as many incidents go unreported. The problem is particularly acute in remote villages, where social stigma deters victims from coming forward. The ease of access to these devices, readily available online and offline without proper warnings, exacerbates the issue.

The Telangana Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Act, 2013, mandates that establishments ensure safety measures and declare their premises free from hidden cameras. Yet, there seems to be a gap between legislation and enforcement. A senior city police official admitted that initiatives like 'Secure and Sure', which involved checking sensitive areas for spy cameras, are not currently active. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of existing measures and the need for more stringent implementation.

As the state grapples with this silent epidemic, the question remains: Can Telangana's women feel safe in their most private moments? The answer lies in a comprehensive approach, combining public awareness, strict enforcement of existing laws, and a zero-tolerance policy towards violators. Only then can the state hope to restore trust and ensure the safety and privacy of its female citizens.

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