Background
The Karnataka Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Act, 2017 was enacted to ensure the safety and security of the general public in establishments that attract large gatherings. The Act provides for mandatory installation and operation of surveillance systems, trained personnel to handle security equipment, and submission of periodical returns to authorities. It seeks to strengthen public safety measures across commercial establishments, industrial units, educational institutions, religious places, transport hubs, and other areas prone to large public congregation.
Applicability
The Act applies to all establishments within Karnataka where a public gathering of 100 or more persons at a time, or 500 or more persons per day, is likely to occur. This includes commercial establishments, industrial establishments, hotels, restaurants, malls, multiplexes, hospitals, religious institutions, educational institutions, sports complexes, railway stations, bus stations, and other notified establishments. Both private and public sector entities running such establishments fall under the scope of this Act.
Compliance requirement under the Act in accordance with Rule
Every owner, manager, or person running an establishment shall provide and maintain public safety measures to ensure the safety and security of the public visiting their establishment. “Establishment” means a place frequented by a large number of people with a likelihood of public gathering of 100 or more at a time, or 500 per day, such as commercial establishments, industrial establishments, religious places, educational institutions, hospitals, sports complexes, railway stations, bus stations, places of organized congregations, and other establishments as notified by the Government.
Owners or managers of establishments must store video footage for 30 days, or as directed by the Government, and produce it when requested by the local Police Inspector or any other authorized authority. Every establishment must also:
3.Form 15: Quarterly Return of Maintenance of Safety Measures in Karnataka (Section 4(1), Rule 5(1))
Owners, managers, or associations running an establishment must submit Form No. 15 every three months, either online or physically, certifying that public safety measures are in place, properly maintained, and equipment is functional, to the Inspector of Police having jurisdiction.
Penalties & Punishment
U/s 4(1):- Those failing to file periodical returns are liable to pay a fine of rupees two thousand
in the first instance and rupees four thousand from subsequent instance.
U/s 6(1): A show cause Notice may be issued
U/s 6(2):- If the owner or manager of an establishment fails to comply with a show cause notice, the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) or Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) may impose a compounding fee:
U/s 6(3) :- (3) If the owner or manager of an establishment fails to comply with directions within one month, the supervisory committee will review their explanation. If unsatisfactory, the local police inspector will temporarily seal the premises and report it to the licensing authority. Religious and educational institutions are exempt from this action.
U/s 6(4): Licensing Authority may issue show cause Notice and cancel the License
Conclusion
The Karnataka Public Safety (Measures) Enforcement Act, 2017 establishes a comprehensive framework for safeguarding public security through surveillance, monitoring, and accountability mechanisms. By mandating CCTV systems, video storage, trained operators, and quarterly reporting, the Act ensures that establishments take proactive measures to prevent and respond to security threats. Effective implementation of these measures helps protect citizens, strengthens law enforcement, and ensures compliance with statutory obligations, thereby contributing to public welfare and safety.
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