UoM to install 720 CCTV cameras on campus

Mysuru: About a month after the controversial anti-CAA protests at a which an alumna displayed a ‘Free Kashmir’ placard and was charged with sedition, the University of Mysore has decided to install 720 CCTV cameras across the 700-acre campus.
TOI had reported in the wake of the protests that the four CCTV cameras at the main entrance of Manasagangotri campus were not functioning for a year. After the controversy, the varsity restricted entry to and movement of vehicles in the campus, amid opposition from students. Currently, out of five entry points to the varsity, three are kept open; city buses are no longer allowed in the campus.
Following the reports, the oldest varsity in the state has decided to install high-quality cameras. Vice-chancellor Hemantha Kumar said the cameras should be in place by March. “This will ensure the safety and security of students and staff and help us monitor the activities on campus. The centralised surveillance will be set up at the computer science department,” Kumar said.
The centralised monitoring solution with 720 cameras will be installed across the campus which covers department corridors, campus roads, entrance and exit gates with vehicle number plates capturing options, said the VC.
The university has more than 40 departments spread across the campus, besides the library, auditorium, playground and hostels.
“It is a good move. If anyone is indulging in illegal activities or picking up a fight with students or creating nuisance on campus, we can act immediately. We can also identify the troublemakers,” said Pulikeshi Y Shetteppanavar, deputy director of the physical education department.
TN Vinay Kumar, a final-year postgraduation student of public administration, welcomed the move. “The cameras will help a tab on campus developments. But authorities must ensure they are maintained and in working condition at all times,” he said.