Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government announced on Saturday that body cameras will be provided to personnel of the Excise department during enforcement drives.
This move is aimed at strengthening evidence collection and ensuring successful prosecution in court.
The decision was revealed by Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, who emphasised that video documentation will help curb loopholes in cases against liquor and narcotics traders involved in illegal operations
“Often, liquor and narcotics traders get bail due to lack of evidence. If body cameras are available, complete video evidence of the incident can be presented in court,” Harichandan told reporters.
Noting that staff in several places in Odisha have already been equipped with body cameras, he said the government plans to gradually extend this facility across the state.
The introduction of body cameras for excise personnel is expected to enhance transparency and accountability during raids, while also protecting officers from false allegations.
Officials believe that video evidence will serve as a powerful tool in securing convictions, particularly in cases where traders exploit technical gaps to escape legal consequences.
