New Delhi: It was a problem once thought to be confined to western countries. However, the recent arrest of a pilot in south Delhi for allegedly filming voyeuristic videos under women’s skirts has brought attention to upskirting, a crime that has been rampant for years in the US, Australia and Europe, and also in Japan and Malaysia.While Delhi Police is conducting an investigation to ascertain if the pilot was selling these online, cyber experts say there is a huge demand for such perverse content. Various adult entertainment websites and social media platforms are known to host and monetise such footage. Niche communities pay for such content on the dark web, sources said.Upskirting or upskirt filming involves secretly recording or photographing people’s private areas in public spaces. Suspects use a camera fixed on the toe of their shoes, but there have been a few cases where spy cameras in umbrellas or watches were also used. Most suspects confessed to buying these devices online.Before the arrest of the pilot, who was allegedly had 74 such videos recorded through his shoe-cam, Delhi last reported such an incident in 2015. There had since been a few such incidents in shopping malls, metros and at crowded events.According to psychologists, the motivations behind this form of voyeurism are complex and multifaceted, driven by a combination of psychological and economic factors. Research suggests that such people often exhibit voyeuristic tendencies, characterised by a desire to observe or film others without consent. This behaviour can be driven by a need for control, excitement or sexual gratification.“People who engage in such acts often suffer from voyeuristic disorder. They struggle to communicate with women and instead derive pleasure from these intrusive behaviours,” said Dr Rajat Mitra, who teaches forensic psychology. “Perpetrators tend to view their victims as objects rather than human beings, lacking empathy and awareness of the emotional harm they cause,” he explained. “The widespread use of smartphones and hidden cameras has further enabled this behaviour, allowing explicit images to be captured and shared discreetly.“Dr Mitra said the experience could be deeply humiliating and distressing for the victims, often leading to long-term psychological consequences. “Many become hyper-vigilant in public spaces. In severe cases, the trauma can even disrupt daily life and strain personal relationships.”Studies have identified various profiles of perpetrators, including those with a history of voyeurism, exhibitionism or other forms of deviant behaviour. Others may be opportunistic people who take advantage of crowded areas or distracted victims while some are hoping to make big money by selling such content online.In India, the IT Act and BNS provide provisions for dealing with voyeurism and invasion of privacy.
