Delhi Police Finds 989 Protesters With Criminal Records Using Facial Recognition Probe

Nearly 2,900 Faces Analysed

Delhi Police has identified 989 individuals with criminal records after analysing facial scans of people who attended the July 20 "Sansad Chalo" protest in the national capital. According to officials, the Facial Recognition System (FRS) was used to examine images of 2,873 people captured through CCTV cameras and other surveillance footage from the protest site. The exercise is part of an ongoing investigation into the violence that erupted during the demonstration.

Police Investigate Role of Identified Individuals

Officials said the 989 people flagged through the facial recognition system have previously been booked in criminal cases, including murder, attempted murder, robbery, kidnapping, sexual offences, and other serious crimes. However, Delhi Police clarified that the existence of a criminal record does not automatically imply involvement in the recent violence. Investigators are now verifying each individual's role using CCTV footage, drone recordings, eyewitness accounts and other digital evidence before taking any legal action.

Focus on Violence During Protest

The investigation is aimed at identifying those allegedly involved in attacking police personnel, damaging public property and instigating violence during the protest. Police said multiple FIRs have already been registered, and more arrests are likely as the investigation progresses. Authorities are also examining mobile phone videos and social media posts to establish the sequence of events and identify individuals responsible for unlawful activities. Officials stressed that all evidence is being cross-verified to ensure that action is taken only against those directly linked to the incidents.

Privacy Debate Intensifies

The use of facial recognition technology has once again sparked concerns among privacy advocates and civil rights groups. Critics argue that deploying such technology during public protests raises questions about surveillance, data protection and the right to peaceful assembly. Delhi Police, however, defended the use of the Facial Recognition System, stating that it is an important investigative tool that helps identify suspects quickly and strengthens law enforcement efforts. Officials maintained that facial recognition matches alone are not sufficient for prosecution and that every case is backed by additional evidence before any legal action is initiated.

The investigation into the July 20 protest remains ongoing, with police continuing to analyse digital evidence and question suspects. Authorities have indicated that further action will depend on individual involvement established through the investigation rather than prior criminal history alone.