Forensic scientists don’t want to be monitored

The scientists and other supporting staff working at the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratory in Kalina criticised the plan to install closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV) inside the institute’s building. 

Bowing to the pressure, the administration reportedly scrapped the plan to install CCTVs in all the laboratories. However, three cameras were already installed and two of them have been switched off due the opposition. Sources revealed that one at the main entrance of the building still functions. 

According to the highly placed sources in the forensic lab, the CCTV plan was mooted in order to keep tabs on the staff. “Knowing that one is being watched helps in improving the productivity at the workplace,” said a senior lab officer. 

Sources added that the move was a discreet way of tackling the increasing number of internal complaints, of outsiders, including the kin of the people accused in crimes frequently visiting the laboratory, raising suspicions of corruption. 

The officials say that that the moment the staff learned about the CCTVs they started protesting and even refusing to work if their demand of the withdrawal of the plan is not fulfilled. 

“It’s like big brother watching. The management can not make us work or improve our efficiency by watching us all the time,” said a laboratory staffer.