The Punjab government has imposed a smart glasses ban for 30 days, barring people from wearing or using camera-enabled glasses and hidden mini cameras disguised as everyday items such as pens and keychains.
The order was issued by the Punjab Home Department on Tuesday under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and took effect immediately. It will remain in force for 30 days unless withdrawn earlier.
What the Smart Glasses Ban Covers
- Wearing or operating camera-enabled smart glasses with hidden recording ability.
- Using miniature recording cameras disguised as objects such as pens or keychains.
- Selling or offering these devices online or in shops, by retailers, wholesalers, traders and distributors.
Laptops, tablets, mobile phones and PTA-approved terminal equipment are not covered. Authorised law enforcement personnel are also exempt.
Why Punjab Took This Step
The Home Department said these devices can secretly capture and transmit audio, images and video, posing a serious risk to public order and personal privacy, especially the dignity of women and children. It also flagged risks to sensitive data and secure installations.
The order named airports, examination centres, government buildings, hospitals, shopping malls, courts and other public places as areas of particular concern.
Court Case on Smart Glasses Imports
The ban comes as the Lahore High Court hears a public interest petition against the unregulated import and sale of smart glasses with cameras and microphones. The court has directed the federal government to send a summary on the issue to the federal cabinet.
AI-powered smart glasses from global tech brands are not officially launched in Pakistan, but the petition says they are openly sold online and in Lahore markets. Sellers across Punjab will now have to pull them from sale while the ban is in force.
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