2,152 more AI cameras, 85% conviction rate: Amit Shah lauds Chandigarh Police on Raising Day

Union Home Minister Amit Shah used the occasion of the Chandigarh Police Raising Day to commend the force for its recent technological upgrades, highlighting the deployment of an additional 2,152 artificial‑intelligence enabled surveillance cameras across the city. He pointed out that the new network, combined with existing infrastructure, has contributed to an 85 per cent conviction rate in cases where the footage was used as evidence, a figure that officials say surpasses the national average for similar investigations. Shah’s remarks underscored the government’s belief that modern policing tools can enhance public safety while also delivering measurable results in criminal prosecutions.

The AI‑driven cameras are equipped with facial‑recognition algorithms and real‑time analytics that allow operators to flag suspicious behaviour instantly, reducing the time needed for manual monitoring. Proponents argue that such capabilities deter criminal activity, improve response times, and generate a reliable evidentiary trail that can withstand courtroom scrutiny. Critics, however, warn that widespread deployment raises privacy issues, especially in densely populated urban areas where constant monitoring may infringe on individual freedoms, and they call for clear regulatory frameworks to balance security with civil liberties.

For residents of Punjab, the enhanced surveillance network promises a safer public environment, particularly in high‑traffic zones such as markets, transit hubs and government buildings where crime rates have historically been a concern. The reported high conviction rate may also encourage other state police forces to adopt similar AI solutions, potentially creating a standardized approach to law enforcement across India. At the same time, the rollout highlights the need for ongoing public dialogue about data protection, as citizens and policymakers alike must ensure that the technology serves the community without compromising fundamental rights.