CBEC has decided that the Commissioner of Customs, has to ensure that video cameras and CCTV systems have been installed in the Customs Area. This is to be done to enhance security and also prohibit unauthorized access in the premises. Moreover, it also says that the video footage must be made available to Customs officials and be regularly monitored. This notification comes under Section 8 of the Customs Act, 1962 which deals in specifying the Customs area required for loading and unloading of imported or export goods. It also specifies the appointment of a Custodian under Section 45 of the Customs Act, 1962.
Circular No.0312012-Customs
F. No.450/13/2012-Dir (Cus)
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Excise and Customs
Room No.229 A, North Block
New Delhi, dated OS January, 2013
To,
All Chief Commissioners of Customs / Customs (Prey.).
All Chief Commissioners of Customs & Central Excise. All Commissioners of Customs / Customs (Prey.).
All Commissioners of Customs & Central Excise.
Director General of Revenue Intelligence.
Directorate of Logistics,
Subject: Installation of Close Circuit Television Systems regarding.
Sir / Madam,
1. Attention is invited to para 5(1) (i)(n) of the Handling of Cargo in Customs Areas Regulations, 2009′ which stipulates that Customs Cargo Service provider (CCSP) or the applicant shall provide security and access control to prohibit unauthorized access to the premises.
2. Security of imported and export goods in Customs area is of utmost importance and any unauthorized access I entry should be prohibited at any cost. One methodology is to use Video Cameras and CCTVs Systems. CVC has also emphasized the utility of Video Cameras and CCTVs Systems from the view point of preventive vigilance. It has however been noticed that Video Cameras and CCTVs Systems are not installed by many Custodians / CCSPs.
3. Accordingly, Board has decided that Commissioner of Customs, at the time of notification 1 Order under Section 8 of the Customs Act, 1962 for specifying Customs area for loading and unloading of imported or export goods and appointment of Custodian under Section 45 of the Customs Act, 1962, should ensure that Video Cameras and CCTVs Systems are installed in the Customs area for security and to prohibit unauthorized access to the premises. The video footage should be available to Customs, which shall regularly monitor the same. This should be ensured by the Custodians / CCSPs within one month of issue of this Circular.
4. The above instructions may be brought to the notice of all the concerned immediately through appropriate Public Notice / Standing orders.
Yours faithfully
(S C. Ganger)
U/S Customs
