PWD orders phased removal of Chinese surveillance systems after Centre’s directive, AAP alleges ‘contract politics’ behind massive overhaul
New Delhi: In a major security overhaul move following the Centre’s crackdown on Chinese surveillance equipment, the Delhi government has initiated plans to remove nearly 1.5 lakh Chinese-made CCTV cameras installed across the national capital. The decision comes into effect after the central government banned the sale of Chinese CCTV cameras from April 1, citing national security concerns.
According to Delhi’s Public Works Department (PWD), the capital currently has over 2.74 lakh CCTV cameras installed in two phases, making it one of the most extensively surveilled urban centres in India. A significant portion of these cameras, especially those deployed in the first phase, belong to the Chinese firm Hikvision, now at the centre of the controversy.
Massive CCTV Replacement Plan Underway
PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh confirmed that the government has decided to systematically remove Chinese-origin cameras, particularly those from Hikvision, and replace them with secure, technologically upgraded systems.
“We have decided to remove a large portion of CCTV cameras installed across Delhi, especially those purchased from Hikvision, keeping in mind national security concerns,” the minister said.
Officials revealed that around 1.4 lakh cameras installed between September 2020 and November 2022 are under scrutiny, with 50,000 cameras set to be replaced in the first phase. The remaining 1.34 lakh cameras were installed between June 2025 and March 2026, bringing the total tally to 2,74,389 units across the city.
Security Concerns Drive Policy Shift
The minister emphasised that the replacement exercise is aimed at ensuring better data protection, improved technical standards, and a reliable service ecosystem. The move aligns with broader national efforts to reduce dependence on foreign surveillance infrastructure amid rising cybersecurity threats.
AAP vs BJP: Political Battle Intensifies
The decision has sparked a sharp political confrontation between the ruling BJP and the opposition Aam Aadmi Party.
Launching a strong attack on the previous AAP government, Parvesh Sahib Singh accused it of ignoring national security implications while installing Chinese cameras across the city.
“Installing Chinese surveillance systems across the capital without evaluating long-term risks was a serious lapse in judgment,” he alleged.
However, AAP Delhi chief Saurabh Bhardwaj dismissed the move as politically motivated, alleging that the security narrative is being used as a cover to award fresh contracts.
“Hikvision cameras are already being used in several central government projects. If security is truly a concern, why hasn’t there been a nationwide ban?” Bhardwaj questioned.
He further alleged that the selective targeting raises doubts, suggesting that the decision may be driven more by contractual interests than genuine security concerns.
Uncertainty Over Surveillance Continuity
As the phased removal begins, questions remain about how the government will ensure uninterrupted surveillance coverage in sensitive zones during the transition. Experts warn that any gaps in monitoring infrastructure could temporarily impact urban security.
With both security concerns and political allegations dominating the discourse, the CCTV overhaul in Delhi is set to remain a high-stakes issue in the coming months.
