Zardari approves ordinance to protect Islamabad Safe City cameras

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has approved an ordinance aimed at protecting Islamabad’s Safe City cameras and surveillance infrastructure from damage.

The ordinance, approved on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, provides for financial penalties against individuals who damage Safe City cameras or other surveillance equipment.

Under the new law, a fine of up to Rs2 million may be imposed for damaging each camera or piece of surveillance infrastructure. Those who encourage or incite such damage may also face penalties.

Organisers of public meetings, processions, sit-ins, protests, strikes or other gatherings could also be held responsible if Safe City infrastructure is damaged during such events.

The fine and compensation for the damage will be determined by an authorised officer. The person facing the penalty will first be given an opportunity to present their case.

The ordinance also allows the affected person to challenge the decision before the District and Sessions Judge in Islamabad within 30 days.

If the imposed fine or compensation is not paid, the amount can be recovered as arrears of land revenue. The money collected through fines and compensation will be used to repair or replace damaged Safe City cameras and surveillance equipment.

The decision comes as Islamabad authorities prepare for potential political protests and gatherings in the capital. PTI has postponed its planned Islamabad protest until October 4 while continuing to demand the release of party founder Imran Khan, who is currently held at Adiala Jail.