In a significant move to further strengthen security and confidentiality within Parliament, the Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued a strict advisory to all Members of Parliament (MPs), cautioning them against the use of modern digital devices such as smart spectacles, pen cameras, and smartwatches inside the Parliament premises.

According to the advisory issued on Wednesday, MPs have been reminded that the rapid advancement of technology has led to the widespread availability of sophisticated devices capable of covert recording and surveillance. A recent Lok Sabha bulletin warned that misuse of such devices could seriously compromise the privacy of members and amount to a grave breach of parliamentary privileges.

Threat to Privacy and Security

As reported by news agency PTI, the Secretariat stated in its directive:
“Advanced devices such as smart glasses, pen cameras, and smartwatches are now easily available in the market. Some of these devices can be misused in ways that compromise members’ privacy and violate parliamentary decorum and privileges.”

The Secretariat has specifically urged MPs to refrain from using any such devices in any part of the Parliament Estate that could endanger security arrangements or infringe upon the privacy of other members.

Experts point out that in the present era of advanced technology, spying and recording devices have become extremely compact and discreet, making them difficult to detect. Ordinary-looking items such as spectacles or pens may now be equipped with video recording or audio surveillance capabilities.

Given the sensitive nature of parliamentary discussions and deliberations, the advisory underscores the need for heightened vigilance to safeguard both institutional integrity and individual privacy within the Parliament complex.