Ahmedabad: Customs personnel posted at the Red Channel of international airports, including Ahmedabad Airport, must now compulsorily wear body-worn cameras (BWCs) while on duty, a step aimed at improving transparency, accountability and public trust.

According to reports, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) issued an internal circular last month mandating the use of BWCs during all passenger interactions within airport premises. Officers are instructed to clearly inform passengers that the interaction is being recorded. The video footage will be securely stored for 90 days, with extended retention in cases related to investigations or court proceedings. Officials said the initiative aligns with global best practices and supports the government’s ease-of-doing-business efforts.

At Ahmedabad Airport, the decision comes after a recent incident that triggered concern within the department. A customs inspector stationed at the Red Channel allegedly allowed a passenger carrying foreign cigarettes to exit without inspection. The lapse reportedly led to an argument between the passenger and the officer, prompting senior officials to step in. A subsequent review of CCTV footage allegedly indicated deliberate negligence, following which the officer was transferred and a departmental probe was initiated.

Sources said complaints from international travellers are fairly frequent, including allegations of missing baggage items and attempts by some passengers carrying dutiable goods to bribe officials to evade legal action or settle cases discreetly. Commonly involved items include cameras, mobile phones, foreign liquor, electronic devices and gold jewellery.

Officials noted that the addition of body-worn cameras, alongside existing CCTV systems, will enable continuous oversight of both customs officials and passengers, thereby minimising disputes, misconduct and allegations of corruption. DeshGujarat