CCTV in girls' common room sparks privacy concerns at Rangpur school

Students and guardians at Jafarpara High School in Pirganj upazila, Rangpur, have expressed anger and concern over the installation of a CCTV camera in the girls' common room. The students have alleged that the camera violates their privacy in a space meant for rest and personal needs.

The students said they use the common room to rest between classes and for personal necessities. The presence of a CCTV camera has left them feeling uncomfortable at all times. They argue that cameras for security should be placed at entrances, corridors or courtyards, but not inside the common room.

Asha Moni, a Class 10 student, said she often needs to use the common room for personal reasons, and the camera makes her feel constantly uneasy.

Mim Moni, a Class 9 student, said whenever she enters the common room, she feels as though someone is watching her, creating mental stress.

Guardians have also expressed concern. They said while ensuring student safety is important, installing a CCTV camera in the girls' common room conflicts with personal privacy.

The school's head teacher, Mejbahur Rahman, did not deny the allegations but said the camera was installed during the parliamentary elections and for examination centre security. He claimed an electrician had been called to remove it for several days but it had not yet been done.

Upazila Executive Officer and school president Mahmudul Hasan said he was not previously aware of the matter and learned about it through journalists. He stated that an investigation would be conducted and necessary action taken.