Opposition’s Allegations on Cameras Baseless, Assembly is a Temple of Democracy: Speaker Devnani

Jaipur, Sept 2025: Rajasthan Legislative Assembly Speaker Shri Vasudev Devnani on Wednesday assured the House that the allegations raised by the opposition regarding invasion of privacy through cameras are completely baseless. He emphasized that the cameras in the Assembly are installed in accordance with rules and to protect the dignity of the House. He added that maintaining the Assembly’s traditions, decorum, and rules is the Speaker’s vital responsibility, and he has always tried to run the House by taking both the ruling and opposition parties together.

Cameras Already Installed, Upgraded under NEVA
Shri Devnani said that the Assembly is a temple of democracy, where all legislators convene. The Assembly’s rules, traditions, and decorum must be respected, as the state’s eight crore citizens watch proceedings live daily. He noted that recent days have shown some lapses in decorum, which must be corrected collectively. Regarding the opposition’s concerns about the cameras, he clarified that cameras have been installed in the new Assembly building since its inception. Even during the previous Savai Man Singh Town Hall Assembly, video recordings of proceedings were conducted. Recently, the paperless system under NEVA (One Nation, One Application) led to camera upgrades.

No Audio Recording, Cameras Installed for Security
Shri Devnani clarified that the cameras do not record audio. The NEVA project enabled technical upgrades of equipment, which is a normal procedure. Electronic devices have a fixed lifespan, and new technology ensures better quality broadcast. During the 15th Assembly, cameras were also used for YouTube live coverage.

Why Opposition Objects to Security Measures?
Expressing surprise, Shri Devnani questioned why the opposition objects to security-related matters. The 360-degree coverage cameras enhance security, he said. He explained that officials, staff, and technicians continually move within the Assembly to check iPads and equipment for maintenance, even when the House is not in session. Cameras are essential for security, and the opposition must take this seriously.

All Galleries and the Speaker’s Podium Covered
Cameras also assist in live broadcasts of seminars and youth parliament events conducted under the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Cameras are installed in members’ seats, the Speaker’s podium, Governor’s gallery, officer galleries, and other galleries. No camera captures audio or targets any specific member. These cameras operate under 360-degree coverage with specific operational guidelines, which are strictly followed.

Privacy of Members Not Violated
Shri Devnani stated that camera upgrades do not violate any member’s privacy. The cameras are mounted high, similar to other state assemblies and the Lok Sabha. Given modern security concerns and incidents in public galleries, camera installation is necessary for safety. With transparency in place, there is no reason for anyone to feel insecure. The Speaker assured that no member’s privacy has been or will be compromised.