Indian activists are legally challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government over the deployment of artificial intelligence-powered surveillance during a student protest in New Delhi. The controversy arose after police positioned a mobile surveillance van, branded "Ikshana", equipped with cameras on a telescopic mast to provide a 360-degree view of demonstrators protesting against examination paper leaks. Student activist Aishe Ghosh has petitioned the Delhi High Court to declare mass surveillance of protesters unconstitutional and order the destruction of all personal data collected during the demonstration. Ghosh's case also asks the court to mandate the framing of guidelines governing how surveillance technology can be utilised. The legal challenge is proceeding despite the protest ending following the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Modi's announcement of a panel to overhaul the examination system.

Background: Surveillance and Smart Cities

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