GUWAHATI: The Assam Governor, in exercise of powers vested by the Assam Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Act, 2023, has introduced a set of regulations aimed at enhancing public safety and compliance with established guidelines. These rules are officially known as the Assam Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Rules, 2023.
The rules apply to all entities falling under the Assam Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Act, 2023. Owners, societies, managers, or individuals mentioned in Section 3 of the Act must install and maintain Public Safety Measures at their expense.
Closed Circuit Television Camera (CCTV) systems and surveillance equipment, when installed, must operate 24/7, even when the establishment is closed. Entities meeting the Act's criteria, including establishments with at least five individuals and residential buildings, must file periodic returns every six months via an online portal created and notified by the Home and Political Department of the Assam Government.
For license renewal, entities must submit a declaration confirming the installation of Public Safety Measures along with the most recent receipt. This declaration must be presented to the Competent Licensing Authority.
Data collected through CCTV systems should be securely stored, preferably in encrypted form, and should not be stored on foreign servers. Owners, managers, societies, and individuals must respond to show cause notices issued by authorities for any violations of the Act.
Police inspectors with jurisdiction over an area will issue prior notice one day before an inspection. They will verify the installation and functioning of Public Safety Measures during daylight hours and maintain the confidentiality of any collected data.
If non-compliance continues, the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), or Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) will levy compounding fees. These fees should be deposited through an online system, and a receipt for the deposited fees will be issued.
If directions are not followed within two months, the Inspector of Police will inform jurisdictional authorities, and the premises may be temporarily sealed. Appeals and second appeals may be filed under the Act. If an appeal is rejected, the appellant must comply with safety instructions and pay fines within 30 days of the order.