Punjab and Haryana High Court Addresses CCTV Installation in College Examination Centers
Mandamus Sought by Guru Nanak College Against Panjab University for Uniform Implementation of CCTV Requirement
In a recent development, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has taken up a writ petition filed by the Managing Committee of Guru Nanak College against Panjab University. The petitioners are seeking a writ of Mandamus directing the university to ensure the installation of CCTV cameras in examination centers of affiliated colleges. This move comes amidst claims of discriminatory implementation of CCTV requirements by the university, which has reportedly led to inconsistencies across various examination centers.
The case, presided over by Justice Kuldeep Tiwari, has been adjourned for further proceedings, with the next hearing scheduled for November 4, 2025. The court issued a notice of motion to the respondents, indicating the significance of the matter in ensuring fair examination practices.
The petitioners, represented by Mr. Sangram Singh Saron and Ms. Kimreet Khurana, argue that the directions for CCTV installation, as discussed in Senate proceedings and committee recommendations, should be uniformly enforced across all affiliated colleges. The Senate proceedings and recommendations cited by the petitioners date back to June and September 2023, respectively, highlighting ongoing deliberations and decisions that have yet to be uniformly applied.
Mr. Inder Preet Singh, representing the respondents, acknowledged the notice and sought an adjournment to gather further instructions and prepare a response to the writ petition. Justice Tiwari has firmly stated that no further requests for adjournment will be entertained, emphasizing the urgency and importance of resolving the matter promptly.
The petition underscores the critical role of surveillance in maintaining the integrity of the examination process. The installation of CCTV cameras is seen as a necessary step to prevent malpractice and ensure transparency during examinations. The court's intervention is expected to bring clarity and uniformity to the implementation of these measures, setting a precedent for other universities and colleges.
As the case progresses, stakeholders and educational institutions across the region will be closely monitoring the outcome, which could have far-reaching implications for examination protocols and the safeguarding of academic integrity.
Bottom Line:
A writ of Mandamus was sought to direct the respondent university to ensure installation of CCTV cameras in examination centers of affiliated colleges or to refrain from designating such colleges as examination centers if they lack CCTV cameras.
Statutory provision(s): Constitution of India Articles 226/227
