In what is being described as a grave violation of privacy and human dignity, over 600 women protested at a police training camp in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, after reportedly discovering CCTV cameras installed in or near toilet areas. The protests erupted on July 22, 2025, when a few trainees raised the alarm upon spotting surveillance equipment near the women’s toilet blocks.
What began as murmurs among a few women quickly turned into a full-blown protest, with hundreds joining in to demand accountability and immediate removal of the surveillance setup. Videos of the protest, now viral on social media, show placards reading “Our Safety Is Not Surveillance” and “Cameras Don’t Protect, They Violate”.
How the Controversy Unfolded
The protest ignited when a trainee noticed what looked like a hidden CCTV lens near a toilet exhaust fan. Upon further inspection by a group of women, multiple suspicious camera units were allegedly found near the washroom areas. Outraged, the women confronted authorities seeking immediate answers.
When officials failed to respond with clarity, the women refused to attend further training and began a sit-in demonstration within the camp.
Administration’s Initial Response
Amid rising media attention and public pressure, senior police officials from Gorakhpur reached the training site to manage the protest. Officials denied any wrongdoing, claiming the cameras were for general corridor surveillance, not aimed at washrooms.
However, their lack of transparency and the inability of trainees to verify the camera placements only intensified the protests.
Violation of Women’s Rights and Dignity
Women's rights groups and legal experts have strongly condemned the incident, labeling it a breach of privacy under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to dignity and privacy.
Anuradha Sharma, a prominent women’s rights lawyer, stated, “Even if the cameras weren’t directly inside the toilets, any surveillance near washrooms is unethical. It causes psychological distress and violates personal liberty.”
National Commission for Women Steps In
The National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo motu cognizance and issued a notice to the Uttar Pradesh Police, demanding a detailed report within 48 hours. NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma tweeted, “This is an extremely serious issue. We will not tolerate any infringement on women's privacy.”
An NCW team is also expected to visit Gorakhpur to conduct a ground-level inquiry.
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
Opposition parties have criticized the state government and called for thorough investigation and accountability. Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party called the incident “a shameful reminder of how the state treats women.”
Students, NGOs, and civil rights groups have joined in protest through candle marches and awareness drives across the region.
Surveillance vs. Safety: A Fine Line
The controversy has sparked a renewed national conversation on surveillance practices in public institutions, especially in gender-sensitive spaces. Experts argue that while safety is important, boundaries must be clearly defined to avoid infringing on personal privacy.
Many are now calling for a formal review of CCTV installation policies in such environments.
Legal Implications: Could This Be a Crime?
If the allegations are found to be true, installing CCTV cameras near toilets may fall under several criminal provisions:
- Section 354C of IPC – Voyeurism
- Section 66E of the IT Act – Capturing images of a private area without consent
- Section 509 of IPC – Insulting the modesty of a woman
Legal experts believe that the authorities responsible may face prosecution if found guilty during investigation.
Demand for Women-Centric Safety Reforms
The protesting women are not merely seeking camera removal—they are pushing for systemic reform. Their demands include:
- Immediate removal of all surveillance near toilets and changing rooms
- A transparent audit of all CCTV placements
- Strict legal action against those responsible
- Establishment of clear privacy policies in police training environments
- Formation of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) in police academies
Social Media Reactions and Viral Outrage
The hashtag #CCTVInToilets has been trending across social media. People are expressing solidarity with the protesting women through posts, reels, memes, and testimonials.
Bollywood actors like Swara Bhasker and Richa Chadha have also spoken out, demanding swift accountability from the authorities.
Most Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly happened at the Gorakhpur Police Camp?
Over 600 women trainees protested after discovering CCTV cameras near toilet areas, raising serious privacy concerns.
2. Were CCTV cameras really installed inside toilets?
This is still under investigation. Protesters allege so, while officials deny any such installation.
3. What was the administration’s response?
Authorities claimed the cameras were for corridor surveillance. Protesters rejected this explanation.
4. Is this a violation of Indian law?
Yes. Installing cameras near private areas can violate privacy laws and lead to criminal charges.
5. Has any action been taken so far?
The National Commission for Women has taken cognizance and initiated a formal inquiry.
6. Are similar issues reported in other training camps?
Some isolated reports exist, but this protest is among the largest public incidents.
7. What are the protesters demanding?
They want camera removal, punishment for those responsible, and privacy reforms.
8. Can CCTV cameras be legally placed near washrooms?
No. It’s unethical and likely a breach of privacy laws in India.
9. What’s the public reaction to this event?
Massive online and offline outrage with demands for accountability and safety reforms.
10. What could be the long-term impact of this protest?
It could drive national reforms around surveillance and women's privacy in public institutions.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Accountability
The Gorakhpur CCTV controversy is more than a protest—it’s a bold statement. In a country where women's safety and dignity are often at stake, surveillance in private spaces is unacceptable.
This movement has already shown that Indian women refuse to stay silent. They want justice, and they’re demanding change for a safer, more respectful future.
Report by Toofan Express