The Punjab government has directed that all CCTV cameras in registrar and sub-registrar offices across the state must be operational by January 31, 2025. This decision comes after a recent inspection revealed that out of 180 offices with installed cameras, only three cameras were functional. The move aims to ensure transparency and convenience for citizens visiting these offices for documentation and registration work. CCTV cameras for transparency and convenience The government initially installed CCTV cameras in sub-registrar offices to monitor the functioning of officials and prevent public inconvenience. The cameras were strategically placed inside offices, where identification is verified, and outside waiting areas. However, a recent check found that most cameras were non-functional, undermining the initiative. This prompted the administration to issue a directive for immediate repairs and installation of operational cameras by the set deadline. Copy of the order Government raised these six points in the letter 1. The order issued by the government states that four CCTV cameras have been installed in the sub-registrar joint sub-registrar offices. Out of these, two CCTVs are installed inside the sub-registrar/joint sub-registrar office (where ID is verified) and outside the office (where the public waits). 2. The purpose of installing these cameras is for the Deputy Commissioner to ensure that the sub-registrar/joint sub-registrar available in their office are working properly and to see that the public is not facing any difficulty in registering wills. This was to bring transparency in the work. 3. However, upon inspection last week, it was found that out of the 180 sub-registrar/joint sub-registrar offices where CCTV cameras have been installed, only three cameras were working. This situation is not entirely satisfactory. 4. You are directed to install CCTV in each sub-registrar/joint sub-registrar office of your district by the date 31.01.2025 and take immediate action on this subject. The cameras should be operational. If not, contact the company installing the cameras. 5. These CCTV cameras are based on IP addresses. Therefore, you are asked to access the CCTV of each office in your district on your computer/mobile. The link to the cameras should be loaded so that you can check the presence and crowd situation at any sub-registrar/joint sub-registrar office in your district at any time. Technical information regarding this has been provided separately to the DMM of your district. 6. You are directed to check the CCTV of some sub-registrar/joint sub-registrar offices in your district daily. Unscheduled checking should be done through live footage. 7. Punjab govt orders functioning CCTVs in Tehsil offices by the end of this month. The checking of these CCTV cameras will also be done by the undersigned and the concerned officials of the headquarters.Original Article