ANSWER
Dear brother, the sisters’ reasoning is correct. The CCTV can be installed in a Masjid for the reason they mentioned as long as the camera is focused only on the pulpit where Imam or the speaker is situated. The camera may not be directed to the congregation, especially the female worshipers. It is important to make certain that the first row (suff) in the sisters’ area is not ahead of the position of the Imam, upstairs. In other words, the followers (Muqtadi) must remain behind the person leading the prayers. Of course, this limitation only applies in prayers, and for the other programs, lectures, Halaqa, etc. the attendees can surround the speaker from all sides, if they have to.

This arrangement of splitting the congregation into two different levels may not be practical if there was no loudspeaker system. As long as the worshippers hear the Imam and follow him in their rites and rituals of prayers, their prayers are valid. For the purpose sisters mentioned is logical reasoning, I recommend that a monitor/screen should be installed with the camera located upstairs, directed towards the Imam’s pulpit, or the speaker’s location.

The above arrangement of hearing and following a prayer in the same building is perfectly all right as the female worshippers are situated in a separate area of the Masjid. The same is also valid if due to the higher turnout of men worshippers, they have to be accommodated in another area of the Masjid, as long as their rows (sufoof) are not interrupted, and they can hear and follow the Imam’s rites in the prayer.

I must also add that nobody should draw the conclusion that listening to the Khutbah and following prayer rituals relayed through electronic/electrical means are as similar as that in the case of watching prayers on TV or hearing it on the Radio. It is absolutely a false view, as it leads to: a) nullifying the orders of Almighty Allah to prayer in congregation and Friday prayers, b) the rows of worshippers are interrupted in between the prayer in the Masjid and those trying to follow it via Radio or TV, etc at their locations.

Our sisters are making efforts to come to the Masajid, we must encourage their participation, welcome and accommodate with all possible means. Our sisters regardless of their age have a greater responsibility than their male counterparts to raise better future generations. Their participation in daily civic and religious activities is required.

Furthermore, in the current unfortunate environment and events; and for the fire/life safety and security reasons, I suggest your organization may also consider installing an affordable surveillance, recording and reporting system. As true Muslims, regardless of faith, we must make all efforts to provide safety and security to worshippers, visitors and others living around our institutions.

I hope this answers your question, I apologize if you find the details to be unrelated to your question. I request you to please forward this reply to your circle if you find it appropriate.
I seek Almighty Allah’s forgiveness, mercy and protection from all of my sins, misunderstandings and mistakes.

I leave you and your loved ones in the mercy, guidance and protection of Allah The Almighty.
Thank you and WaSalamu Alaikum,
Najam A. Najmi
www.MediationNJ.com