A CCTV operator deployed for election duty was arrested in Chennai on Tuesday after he recorded and shared footage from a high-security surveillance control room located near a strong room housing electronic voting machines (EVMs) at Anna University. The incident came to light when the video surfaced on social media platforms, sparking widespread outrage.
Details of the Incident
The accused, identified as Yuvaraj from Thiruvarur district, was employed by a private firm contracted to install and maintain CCTV systems at election counting centres. He had been issued an identity card by district election authorities to monitor cameras on the Anna University campus, where EVMs from five assembly constituencies — T Nagar, Saidapet, Virugambakkam, Mylapore, and Velachery — are stored.
According to police, Yuvaraj entered the CCTV control room near the strong room and recorded footage while watching a film on his laptop. He later uploaded the video on social media, along with visuals from inside the control room and his official identity card, falsely claiming control over election surveillance operations.
Legal Action Taken
The breach was detected by security personnel on campus, who immediately alerted the district election officer. Based on a complaint, the Kotturpuram police registered a case under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act and the Information Technology Act for unauthorized recording in a prohibited area and misuse of official access. Yuvaraj was arrested, and his mobile phone and laptop were seized. During interrogation, he admitted to recording and sharing the content while on duty.
Security Measures at Counting Centres
Officials stated that CCTV systems had been installed at three counting centres — Anna University, Queen Mary’s College, and Loyola College — with a total of 540 cameras, including 180 at Anna University alone. Access to surveillance areas was strictly restricted due to the presence of sealed EVMs. The incident has raised concerns about the security protocols in place during the election process.
