Punjab govt bans use, sale of camera-enabled smart glasses for 30 days

The Punjab government has enacted a 30-day ban on the use and sale of camera-enabled smart glasses and miniature cameras disguised as everyday items. This restriction was issued by the Punjab Home Department secretary, exercising powers under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898. Under the order, individuals are prohibited from wearing or operating these devices, which include cameras hidden within objects like pens or keychains.

Exemptions are made for laptops, handheld tablets, mobile phones, and equipment approved by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority. Retailers, wholesalers, and distributors are also barred from selling or promoting these products, whether online or in physical stores.

The government's concern is that the unrestricted use of these devices could compromise public order, individual privacy, especially concerning the safety of women and children, as well as the security of sensitive data and installations. The ban is particularly aimed at safeguarding areas such as airports, examination centers, government facilities, healthcare settings, shopping malls, courtrooms, and public spaces.

It was reported that the unrestricted use of these glasses and disguised cameras in Punjab could pose a significant risk to these aspects of society.

The order emphasizes that the restriction is in place with immediate effect and will remain in force for 30 days unless lifted earlier. Law enforcement personnel deemed necessary for maintaining public safety are exempt from this ban. The Punjab government's decision to enforce this ban follows a public interest petition filed by the Lahore High Court, which questioned the unregulated import and sale of these devices due to potential threats to privacy, dignity, and national security.

Meta, the company behind AI-powered smart glasses, has faced criticism for these devices, often referred to as "pervert glasses" due to their intrusive capabilities. Although Pakistan is not officially listed as a market for these devices, the petitioners' counsel argued that the company's products are readily available online and in Lahore's shops.

The Lahore High Court responded by directing the federal government to provide a summary of the unregulated import and sale of smart glasses to the federal cabinet.