Punjab bans hidden-camera gadgets to curb privacy violations
The Punjab government announced a ban on items such as pens, glasses and watches that contain concealed cameras or microphones, citing threats to privacy, especially for women and children.
Punjab's Home Department declared that any pen, eyeglass, watch or similar object fitted with hidden recording equipment will be outlawed, labeling them as tools for spying. Officials emphasized that the measure seeks to safeguard citizens' privacy, with a focus on women and children, and announced severe penalties for illegal possession, sale or use. Ahmad Javed Qazi, the province's Home Secretary, indicated that a formal notification will follow shortly, allowing residents to remove such devices from their homes.
The ban comes as the Lahore High Court considers a public interest petition that questions the unchecked import and sale of camera- and mic-enabled smart glasses, which critics have called "pervert glasses." The petition specifically mentions Meta's AI-powered eyewear, which, although not officially marketed in Pakistan, is reportedly available online and in Lahore stores. The court has asked the federal government to brief the cabinet on the issue.
Why it matters
The ban targets covert surveillance tools that threaten personal privacy and could be used for harassment or blackmail.
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