Can installing CCTV invade neighbour’s privacy? Legal experts say yes after key ruling

The Allahabad High Court recently ruled that private CCTV cameras cannot be installed in a manner that infringes upon a neighbour's privacy. The court directed the petitioner to seek an injunction from the district magistrate. The ruling raises the question of when a security camera becomes intrusive. Justices Ajit Kumar and Garima Prashad explained that the neighbour's camera interfered with visitors' privacy.

Advocate Ashima Mandla stated that the purpose of a camera for personal safety is fine, but when it surveils another's entrance, it becomes surveillance, not security. She explained that a person can seek court orders under the Specific Relief Act, Code of Civil Procedure, or the Information Technology Act if the recording constitutes a criminal offence.

Senior Advocate Vikas Pahwa emphasized that the right to security should not infringe upon the right to privacy, urging appropriate guidelines to prevent cameras from capturing neighbouring private spaces.