How it is done

1. 175 vector points of each MLA’s face will be stored in the database
2. Cameras, capable of rotating at a 180-degree angle, will capture images of members every hour
3. Software will then cross-check the images against pre-recorded data

Chandrababu Naidu expressed concern after finding only about 50 members present while he was addressing the House

Legislators in Andhra Pradesh will no longer be able to skip Assembly sessions without notice. In a significant step to ensure accountability, the State government is introducing an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered facial recognition attendance system in the Legislative Assembly. Under this system, attendance will be recorded automatically as soon as members take their seats. The data will then be transmitted directly to the Chief Minister’s dashboard, offering real-time monitoring of legislators’ presence in the House.

The Hyderabad-based Durank Technology Services has been tasked with developing this cutting-edge mechanism, which is currently under pilot testing during Assembly sessions. Special pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras will be installed inside the House to scan members’ faces at regular intervals.

As part of the system, 175 vector points of each MLA’s face will be stored in the database. Cameras, capable of rotating at a 180-degree angle, will capture images of members every hour and forward them to the central server. The software will then cross-check the images against pre-recorded data, instantly generating a list of those present and absent.

Until now, members were required to sign a register placed outside the Assembly premises. However, allegations had surfaced that some legislators would sign the register without attending the sessions.

The move comes in the backdrop of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s displeasure at poor attendance during Assembly proceedings. Recently, he expressed concern after finding only about 50 members present while he was addressing the House. Following his remarks, Chief Whip G.V. Anjaneyulu instructed members to attend the sessions regularly and participate actively in debates.

By phasing out the manual signature system and adopting AI-based monitoring, the government aims to bring greater discipline and seriousness to legislative proceedings. Once fully implemented, the new technology will make it mandatory for MLAs to attend and engage in Assembly discussions, leaving little room for absenteeism.