Section 144 Imposed Across Punjab Banning Recording and Spy Devices for 30 Days; Purchase, Sale, and Use of Hidden Cameras and Smart Glasses Prohibited
LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has banned the use, purchase and sale of recording devices, hidden and espionage devices in all over the province for a period of 30 days under Section 144 of the Police Act 1898.
The ban covers devices that can take snapshots, videos and sound without the user’s knowledge, such as smart glasses with hidden cameras, pens, keychains and other stealth gadgets for spying, the Home Department said in the notification.
Key Highlights of Punjab Home Department’s Section 144 Restrictions
Respecting Citizen Privacy and Security: The Home Department noted that the free use of recording devices that are hidden or disguised is extremely harmful to citizens’ right to privacy, sensitive information, and to security overall.
The Ban is clearly excluded for Standard Electronic Communication Devices such as Laptops, Tablets, Mobile Telephones and PTA approved terminal equipment.
Effective Date: Formal notification has been issued and the 30-day province-wide ban has been immediately implemented in all districts of Punjab.