CCTV at public places

However, the capacity to combat terrorism and contain crime has to be enhanced in many areas. The introduction of CCTV will add to the logistic support that the law enforcers need to work efficiently. Much will depend on proper maintenance of the device.

Unfortunately, maintenance is one area where our track record is extremely poor.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

The CCTV is a modern device which cannot produce the desired results if glaring flaws remain in the modus operandi of the law enforcers. There is perhaps no point in handing over a new glittering toy to the boys when they don't have the training or equipment to address some of the basic issues of crime detection. For example, the investigative capacity of the police still remains very low, as they are not adequately supported by forensic facilities and the capacity to collect and preserve evidence. The point needs no elaboration, as even ordinary crimes go undetected.

The police also lack mobility and motivation. Criminals are now carrying sophisticated communication devices and in some cases fast moving vehicles. The limitations of the police only contribute to worsening of the crime situation. So the situation calls for overhauling of the police force on the basis of a well thought out reform plan-- a point this newspaper has raised several times. The decision-makers are also convinced that we need a modern police force to face the challenges of the present day crime situation. But the reform agenda is not making much headway, despite being fully agreed upon by both the experts and the decision-makers.

The police must be well trained, equipped and motivated. Only then can we expect modern devices to serve our purpose-- the human factor being crucially important here. The decision-makers should not be oblivious of the fact that many such experiments failed in the past. So they have to concentrate on overall improvement of police efficiency.