CCTV Failure Triggers Security Concerns
A major security lapse at the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) office has prompted a sweeping shake-up in its surveillance and security systems. The discovery that CCTV cameras on the premises had been non-functional for nearly three months has triggered sharp criticism and calls for accountability from Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Das expressed shock over the lapse, stating, “It’s shocking that no one informed me about the CCTV failure. Even a child can see through this mess.” The Mayor said she would ensure that such negligence is not repeated.
Mayor Slams Administration in Emergency Meeting
In response to the breach, Mayor Das chaired a high-level review meeting with all standing committee chairpersons, Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL) officials, representatives from private security firm Jagannath Placement and Security Services, and senior BMC administrators.
Sources present at the meeting described the mood as “tense and aggressive,” with the Mayor openly reprimanding officials for their failure to act. “Why were the CCTV cameras not working? Who was responsible for monitoring? Why did the guards fail to act?” she demanded.
Civic Body Takes Full Control of Security Operations
Following the meeting, Mayor Das announced that BMC would immediately take over full responsibility for its internal security, including surveillance systems, guard deployment, and access control. These duties were previously under the jurisdiction of Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited.
“From today, BMC will monitor and control every aspect of building security. No longer will we allow miscreants to feel emboldened or staff to feel threatened,” Das said, asserting the civic body’s commitment to staff and public safety.
Guard Staff Replaced, Surveillance Systems to Be Revamped
In the immediate aftermath of the breach, all existing security personnel on duty during the incident were replaced. Fresh guards have now been deputed. Additionally, Mayor Das confirmed that all malfunctioning CCTV cameras in the BMC building will be restored without delay and access protocols will be tightened across all four floors occupied by BMC.
BSCL to Support Infrastructure, Not Oversight
Officials from Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited acknowledged BMC’s concerns and confirmed that while the civic body will now independently oversee its own security, BSCL will continue to provide infrastructure support.
“BMC will manage day-to-day security and surveillance, but we will assist them with necessary systems, including a dedicated control room setup like the ones used by leading corporate offices,” a senior BSCL official stated.
Mayor Assures Transparency and Safety
Describing the security lapse as “unacceptable,” Mayor Das vowed to restore order and ensure no such breach occurs again. “You can cite technical glitches, but dereliction of duty cannot be tolerated. People in this building should feel safe—both employees and citizens,” she said.
The overhaul marks a significant shift in how security will be managed at one of Odisha’s most important administrative centers, following rising concerns over safety, accountability, and administrative transparency.