Originally Posted by xyzzy
I do stay and watch my bags whenever possible. Try doing this at EWR terminal C. They have big partitions that are designed to prevent you from watching. If you try to watch through a crack in the partition or over the top they tell you to leave and that you are not allowed to watch. Last time this happened (last week) I started to get into an argument with them but my family (not wanting to miss our flight) directed me up the escalator. The TSA folks always actively encourage people to leave the area after bags are dropped off.
Let me clarify. You cannot observe the CTX images. However, you have every right to observe your bags being opened and physically searched by a screener. I recommend you write the FSD of that airport. Sounds to me like they're not following written TSA policy.