Maharashtra Forms Committee to Draft SOP for AI Smart Glasses and Wearables
MUMBAI — The Maharashtra government has constituted a one-member committee to formulate a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the safe and regulated use of artificial intelligence-powered smart goggles, smart glasses, camera-enabled spectacles, and other wearable devices across the state.
According to a government resolution issued by the Home Department on Thursday, the committee will be headed by the Additional Director General of Police, Maharashtra State Cyber, who also heads the Maharashtra State Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (S4C).
The state administration initiated the move amid growing concerns over potential risks to national security, state security, and citizens' privacy. These concerns stem from the advanced capabilities of wearable devices, including capturing photographs and videos, live streaming, facial recognition, and data collection.
The committee has been assigned to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the technological features embedded in such wearable devices. It will also evaluate the potential security threats posed by their use in public areas and sensitive installations, including Mantralaya, government administrative offices, police stations, court premises, airports, railway stations, power projects, ports, defence-related facilities, educational institutions, hospitals, and religious sites.
Beyond risk evaluation, the panel is tasked with drafting clear rules specifying where and under what conditions AI-enabled wearable devices may or may not be operated. The framework will include security protocols designed to safeguard individual privacy and civil liberties.
Additionally, the committee will design specialised training modules and operational guidelines for security agencies and law enforcement personnel. These tools are intended to help personnel identify potential threats and enforce device restrictions effectively.
The committee has been directed to submit its detailed findings and final recommendations to the Home Department within four months from the date the government resolution was issued.
