Jagatsinghpur: A major privacy scare has emerged at the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) office in Jagatsinghpur after a suspected hidden camera was allegedly discovered inside the women’s washroom, triggering panic among employees and prompting an extensive police investigation.
The incident came to light on Thursday morning when a finance department employee, identified as Madhusmita Samantray, reportedly noticed a suspicious electronic device inside the washroom after it accidentally fell onto the floor.
Alarmed by the discovery, she immediately informed senior officials, following which police were alerted and rushed to the office premises.
The incident has sparked serious concern among employees, especially women staff members, over possible violations of privacy and workplace security.
Police seize device and register FIR
Acting swiftly after receiving the complaint, police seized the suspected hidden camera from the washroom and registered a First Information Report (FIR) in connection with the case.
Officials stated that the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness due to the sensitive nature of the allegations and the possibility of unauthorised surveillance inside a restricted area used by women employees.
Investigators said it remains unclear whether the device had actually been installed for recording purposes or whether it had actively captured or transmitted any footage.
Police have not yet confirmed the exact nature or technical specifications of the seized device.
Detailed investigation underway
Authorities have launched a detailed probe to determine how the device entered the office premises and whether it had been deliberately planted inside the washroom.
As part of the investigation, police teams have collected CCTV footage from different sections of the DRDA office complex to trace suspicious activity and identify any individuals linked to the incident.
Investigators are examining whether there could have been internal involvement or whether the device was placed as part of a planned attempt to breach privacy.
Officials indicated that multiple office staff members may be questioned during the course of the investigation.
Forensic experts analysing device
A digital forensic team has also been brought in to analyse the seized electronic device.
According to officials, experts are attempting to retrieve technical information from the device, including any stored or deleted data that may help determine whether footage was recorded.
Police are also investigating whether the device was connected to any external network or transmission system.
The forensic analysis is expected to play a crucial role in establishing the exact purpose of the device and identifying those responsible.
Special investigation team formed
The Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Tirtol stated that a special investigation team has been constituted to accelerate the probe.
Officials said the team is relying heavily on technical evidence, CCTV footage and forensic findings to trace suspects and uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police have assured employees that strict action will be taken if any individual is found guilty of violating privacy or involvement in unlawful surveillance activities.
Employees demand stronger security
The incident has caused widespread concern among employees working at the government office.
Several staff members have reportedly demanded enhanced security measures inside office premises, particularly in sensitive areas such as washrooms and changing facilities.
Employees also urged authorities to conduct regular inspections and improve surveillance systems to prevent similar incidents in future.
Women employees expressed anxiety over workplace safety and privacy following the discovery.
Growing concerns over workplace privacy
The incident has once again highlighted increasing concerns regarding hidden surveillance devices and privacy breaches in workplaces and public institutions.
Experts note that the easy availability of miniature recording devices has created fresh challenges for law enforcement agencies and organisations tasked with ensuring employee safety.
Authorities are expected to strengthen awareness and monitoring measures as investigations continue in the Jagatsinghpur case.
Police said further details would be shared once the forensic examination and technical analysis of the device are completed.