If you are making reels in public places then stop, police can arrest you, know what are the rules:

You must have noticed that while shooting reels in public places, there is often a crowd. Sometimes traffic comes to a halt and sometimes public transport is also disrupted. Many times, this activity also violates the privacy of others. Such situations can lead to legal complications.

In today’s time, making reels and videos on social media is not just a hobby but has become a trend. People turn on their phone cameras and start taking pictures in parks, railway stations, tourist places, government buildings. But did you know that in some places it is illegal to do so?

So today in our series of legal questions, let’s talk about what are the rules and regulations for making reels or videos in public places in India? In which places is it illegal to shoot video? What is the punishment for shooting video without anyone’s permission?

Making a reel or video in a public place is not illegal, but it is considered legal only if you are shooting with the permission of the local administration, concerned department or property owner.

Also, keep in mind that no one’s privacy, security or any law is violated. If you shoot in restricted, sensitive or government controlled places without permission, then it is considered a crime under this law.

If you make a reel or video at these places, legal action can be taken against you. Such as historical and archaeological sites, monuments, forts and caves or palaces protected by ASI.

You cannot make reels or videos on railway property, railway stations, platforms, tracks, bridges, secretariats, police stations, courts, jails, as well as district collectorates, ministries, bus stands, metro stations, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, protected forests, airports, air force bases, no-fly zones, hydropower projects, underground metro tunnels, including some religious places. In short, if you want to make a reel or video at these places, then first you will have to take written permission from this department or administration.

Under new sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), activities that disturb public order, cause inconvenience to others or create disturbance can be prosecuted. If you block roads, obstruct traffic or gather crowds during filming, you may be prosecuted.

Under provisions like sections 353 and 355 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), the police have the right to arrest any person who violates public order. There is no need for a warrant for this arrest. This means that if you are caught breaking the rules while making a reel, the police can take action on the spot. Keep in mind that breaking the law and making a reel in a public place can be costly. Wherever necessary, it is best to seek permission to shoot video. Pursue your hobby, but if you harm others, you may face legal trouble.

(Disclaimer: If you have any specific case, it is advisable to consult a legal expert (lawyer). The information given here is only based on court judgments and articles. If you want to know about any case, you can consult an appropriate lawyer.)