Shimla Drone controversy: Mapping project mistaken for Surveillance
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Aug 30,
In a surprising turn of events in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur accused the government, led by Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, of spying on his Shimla residence using drones for surveillance. However, documents on ground tell a different story.
The records show that the Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam (SJPNL) has been using drones to conduct Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping of properties within the Municipal Corporation area. These drone operations were carried out with proper permissions from the ADM Law and Order, with clear instructions to follow safety norms, including avoiding low-flying zones and not carrying dangerous objects.
Although the Chief Minister didn’t directly address the allegations in the Assembly, he later told the media that the drones were indeed used by SJPNL for mapping purposes. He dismissed LOP’s accusations as an attempt to create unnecessary controversy.
Meanwhile in a media statement Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur alleged that his official residence is being monitored by drones. Drones have been seen several times around his residence. This kind of violation of the privacy of the Leader of Opposition is shameful. Instead of giving assurance of getting the matter investigated, the Chief Minister is making fun of it. This attitude of the government is unfortunate. He said that the government should refrain from such misuse of power. Power is for service, not to harass anyone, stated Thakur.
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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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