The State Of Facial Recognition In India

Research by Bharath Pottekkat
Presented & Edited by Sumit Krishna Yadav

The Indian State is quickly adopting new forms of emerging technologies such as facial recognition systems. Specifically, these technologies are now being used by law enforcement with the aim to recognize and identify persons of interest swiftly. From the Prime Minister's rally in Delhi to protests in UP, facial recognition technologies have been seemingly very useful for law enforcement. However, a quick look back at history tells us that there are some serious concerns with this form of technology that must be addressed. Why? Because surveillance of citizenry might be a useful tool to maintain law and order. However, it can become dangerous if it impedes citizens' fundamental rights without robust levels of accountability. Beyond the issue of privacy, the efficiency of such systems should be explored to ensure that individuals are not misidentified. In this video, we take a look at how these concerns have been identified and addressed on a global scale? How these questions are an integral part of discourse in a democracy? And what reforms are required before going forward?