BODY WORN CAMERAS: BOON OR BANE?

Victoria Police recently started trialling body worn cameras (BWC) to see if they improve the Victorian policing environment. The cameras will record video and audio evidence and ultimately, increase transparency in interactions between the police and the public.

The flip side to the new development is the obvious question of privacy of citizens. We asked residents what they thought about BWCs, and here’s what they had to say.

Police may not always tell you when they are turning on the camera. However, the camera will usually show a flashing red light when it is recording and you are more than welcome to ask if you are unsure.

Dr Ritesh Chugh

The body worn camera pilot program by Victoria Police is a welcome move for collecting evidence. Apart from a tool to collect evidence, these device can also potentially enhance the safety of police of cers and possibly deter potential offenders. In cases of police misconduct, the recordings from these devices can also be used to determine accountability. The cameras will essentially be an extra pair of eyes for the police of cers, but it’s important that they communicate all the appropriate information to stakeholders. I can only hope that the program is a success and every police of cer is equipped with a BWC.

Dipanjali Rao

I think cameras are a good idea in terms of police accountability, especially in light of the recent incident with Melbourne police where they ill treated a man with a disability. However, cameras and technology alone cannot be responsible for accountability. There has to be a structural support in place that independently investigates police behaviour. Police investigating their own, as it currently stands, compromises justice. Technology is a critical tool to ensure accountability, but it absolutely needs to be supported by a cultural change and by independent bodies that investigate misdemeanour and abuse.

I think it’s a great idea. Given the number of road accidents that occur nowadays, these cameras are a great tool for the cops while they undertake an alcohol or drug test, or even conduct vehicle stops. BWCs can be as credible a source of evidence as dash-cam videos, particularly in cases of family violence. I do hope, though, that they use them in above circumstances and not misuse their power. Like, what if they deliberately don’t turn on their camera? Also, the storage and dealing with privacy should be very strict and any laxity should invite serious repercussions. Overall, I think it is great initiative and should prove to be a great success.

It is a fantastic initiative! This will promote trust, honesty and integrity in the system. But we need to be mindful of the footage; one should make sure it covers the story from start to end not just half the conversation. And as soon as any recording is done it should go straight into a central database that is controlled by an independent body that is not linked with the police. This initiative will not only make Melbourne a better place to live but also help train police staff in case of unethical behaviour.

Any new technology has its pros and cons. In this case, the advantages are that there would be complete transparency and a huge boost to public relations for Vic Police. But some doubts are bound to be in people’s minds, like loss of privacy and how the recorded information is subsequently used. Besides routine policing, it will certainly help them in high pro le events like handling civil unrest. In my opinion, the biggest advantage is the objectivity these cameras will ensure because they will take away any subjective interpretation. Still, one can’t be sure. The proof will be in the pudding and it all depends on how they implement these cameras.

I am in favour of this camera. It’ll help the community to know what really goes on during police operations. It would, without a doubt, enhance transparency and accountability. Gathering video and audio evidence will enable tighter law enforcement.

Compiled by PREETI JABBAL

ENTERTAINMENT

Stand up: 5 May (7pm onwards)

Laugh India Laugh Fame with Chirag Wadhwan at Williamstown Town Hall 104 Ferguson St, Williamstown VIC 3061. Details 0406 997 339

Gurdas Maan Live: 20 May Gurdas Maan live concert in Melbourne. Details 0435 779 544/ 0426 809 499.

Swar Sandhya: 5th May (7.30pm onwards) An evening of Karaoke style singing of Hindi lm music. Brandon Park Primary School, 1-5 Ninevah Cres, Wheelers Hill. Details 0407 612 622.

Hindustani Classical Recital: 25 May (7:30pm – 11:30pm) Vidushi Ramneek Singh of Indore gharana, accompanied by local musicians, Bobby Singh on tabla and Bikram Singh Malhar on harmonium. 32

Tweed Street, Highett (The Gupta family residence).

Hindi Theatre: 25 May (7:30pm –11:30pm) Natyadarpan Theatre Academy presents Divya Rang, a collection of two powerful Hindi dramas. Chandler Community Centre, Isaac Rd, Keysborough.

Jashn-E-Bollywood: 26 May (6:00pm - 9:00pm) An evening of live lmy fun with Bollywood musicians, singers and dancers Dreambuilders, 37-43 Graham Ct, Hoppers Crossing, VIC 3029. Details 0411 429 598

Richa Sharma Live Concert: 27 May (7pm onwards) Sajda Night with a live performance by Richa Sharma at

Melbourne Town Hall 90-120 Swanston Street Melbourne VIC 3000. Details 0401 544 962.

WORKSHOP

Dance workshop: 27 May (9:30am and 11:30am)

Disha’s ‘Dance for Dignity’ Bollywood dance workshops will be raising money for ‘Share the Dignity’, for women facing nancial crisis due to domestic violence and homelessness in Melbourne. Creative Events Space – Skydeck, 318 Chapel Street, Prahrahn. Details 0418 860 460.

COMMUNITY

Indian Business Women Network Meeting

3 May (10.30am – 12.30 pm) Mezzanine Café and Lounge, 11 / 211 Leakes Road, Truganina. Details www.facebook.com/ IndianBusinessWomenNetwork

Indian Professional in Victoria (IPV): a non-for-pro t, membership-based and member-owned association that aims to train and support Indian professionals and entrepreneurs through workshops, seminars, webinars and mentoring programs. Membership details http:// www.ipv.org.au

Indian Community Mental Health Support Group

4 May (2:00 pm – 4:30 pm) Every rst Friday of the month at Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Mill Park Library), 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park, VIC. Details www.mindaustralia.org.au or 1300 554 660