‘SHE Netra’ to keep an eye on hidden cams in public places

Hyderabad: Armed with a gadget to detect hidden cameras and protect women's safety and privacy, the Hyderabad police on Friday formed ‘SHE Netra' to conduct decoy operations at malls, theatres and other public places. The SHE Netra wing has been formed under the existing SHE Teams."To safeguard the dignity and privacy of women against the threat of hidden cameras, the police have launched the ‘SHE Netra' initiative. These specialised teams are dedicated to detecting and neutralising hidden surveillance in public and private spaces such as hotels, malls, hostels, educational institutions and commercial complexes," Hyderabad police commissioner VC Sajjanar said.The hand-held gadget is used to detect cameras in suspicious locations. When directed at a suspected spot, the device emits a light beam that helps ascertain the presence of a camera lens. Seven teams have been formed, with each team equipped with camera detection gadgets. The teams have also been trained in using the device.When asked whether there had been any cases of privacy breaches, deputy commissioner of police (SHE Teams) Lavanya Naik Jadav told TOI that a few months ago, a house owner had installed a hidden camera inside a tube light in a washroom of a rented house. Police said they have not received any specific complaint about hidden cameras in public places such as malls, and that this initiative has been launched as a deterrent.Managements have been asked to appoint a customer safety in-charge, who will act as the nodal person to coordinate with SHE Teams. "Managements have also been instructed to procure their own camera detectors and conduct regular internal sweeps. The police department will provide the necessary training for these designated officers," Jadav further said. How it worksAfter visiting public places, police will identify apertures in washrooms & change rooms. Camera detector gadget will be held at 90-degree angle. A light beam is then directed into the aperture. If a lens is present, the light turns pink. Pink light confirms presence of camera