Allahabad High Court questions UP govt's order on CCTV installation at petrol pumps

The Allahabad High Court has questioned an order by the Uttar Pradesh (UP) government that requires petrol stations in the National Capital Region (NCR) to install surveillance cameras with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) capabilities. The court is examining whether petrol station owners can be compelled to bear the costs associated with these installations.

The directive, originally issued under the guidance of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), stipulated that installations must be completed by September 30, 2026. The Uttar Pradesh Petroleum Traders Association has filed a petition arguing that no law empowers the state government or oil companies to transfer these installation costs to private business owners. The association stated it does not object to the installation of ANPR cameras but cannot be made to pay for them.

The association contends that forcing owners to pay for the cameras amounts to a compulsory extraction of money, violating Articles 300A and 265 of the Constitution, which protect against deprivation of property without legal authority and the levy of taxes without parliamentary sanction. The association reported that authorities and oil companies have threatened coercive measures due to the deadline. However, the High Court has issued an interim order prohibiting coercive actions until September 30, while awaiting further clarification.

This case highlights a broader debate regarding the mandate for private businesses to fund surveillance infrastructure. While CCTVs can aid in crime investigation and security, compelling businesses and individuals to finance state security interests raises questions of equity and the use of public funds. Such mandates can also lead to wider concerns about privacy and the expansion of state surveillance.