What prompted police to remove CCTV cameras from Fatehabad’s Gurunanakpura

The Fatehabad police have removed a network of CCTV cameras from Gurunanakpura Mohalla following the allegations that drug traffickers were using them to monitor police movement. The action came following complaints from residents, who claimed the surveillance system was being misused to facilitate drug trade instead of ensuring public safety. The crackdown is part of a wider anti-drug campaign launched by SP Nikita Khattar.

Why did the police remove CCTV cameras from Fatehabad locality?

The police removed CCTV cameras after receiving repeated complaints from the residents that they were being misused by drug peddlers. According to the locals, many cameras installed in the area were directed towards streets, lanes and entry points instead of private properties. The residents alleged that the footage was being used to track police patrols and raids, allowing the traffickers to shift or hide contraband before the police could reach them.

Why is Gurunanakpura under police surveillance?

According to Fatehabad SP Nikita Khattar, Gurunanakpura has emerged as a hotspot for drug trafficking. The police have recently seized significant quantities of narcotics from the area and arrested several alleged drug traffickers. Because of these developments, the locality remains under special police surveillance.

What are residents saying?

Many residents have welcomed the removal of the CCTV cameras from the locality. They said a small group involved in drug trafficking was tarnishing the image of the area. Some residents alleged that drug abuse had affected several families and expressed concern that illegal earnings from the drug trade were destroying the social fabric of the neighbourhood.

Is it illegal to install CCTV cameras in residential areas?

SP Khattar has clarified that residents are free to install CCTV cameras outside their homes for security purposes. However, cameras should not be used to monitor public streets and lanes in a manner that helps criminal activities.

How strong has the anti-drug crackdown been?

Since taking charge as Fatehabad SP in April, Nikita Khattar has intensified the anti-drug campaign. Between April 1 and June 8, the police registered around 140 FIRs under the NDPS Act and arrested nearly 220 accused. During the same period, large quantities of narcotics were also seized. The police say the crackdown will continue and efforts are underway to dismantle drug trafficking networks across the district.