Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a meeting with senior ministers inside the Parliament to discuss a security breach.
The Lok Sabha secretariat suspended eight security personnel on Thursday due to security lapses that led to a major breach in Parliament on Wednesday. The breach occurred on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack. Two individuals, Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan D, entered the Lok Sabha chamber from the public gallery during Zero Hour, released yellow gas from canisters, and shouted slogans before being subdued by MPs.
At the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with senior ministers inside the Parliament to address the security breach, as opposition leaders demanded statements in both houses.
The Lok Sabha was adjourned until 2 pm amidst protesting by opposition MPs over the security breach incident. They also called for the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the incident.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed concern about the previous day’s events in the House, emphasizing that the security of the House is the responsibility of the Lok Sabha Secretariat.
Congress MP Manickam Tagore stated, “It is an intelligence failure, and we hope for a fair investigation of the matter. Home Minister Amit Shah must provide answers, as the Delhi Police and all security agencies report to him. He cannot avoid this responsibility. BJP MP Mr. Simha provided passes to these culprits, and there is a deep conspiracy behind this that must not go unpunished.”
Meanwhile, significant security changes were implemented in Parliament on Thursday, with security personnel stationed at the entrance of the outer gates requiring even shoes to be removed despite thorough frisking of those entering the premises of the campus.
The new security measure resembles that of airport security, where individuals are asked to open their shoes, especially long or leather boots, during the security check. Only MPs are allowed to enter the Parliament building from Makar Dwar, and all persons entering the building are thoroughly screened.
This move came after Manoranjan and Sagar Sharma were arrested for breaking into the Lok Sabha and releasing smoke canisters that they had hidden in their shoes.
Security personnel have also limited media access to stand about 50-60 meters away from ‘Makar Dwar,’ one of the six entry gates where a majority of legislators enter.
Four people were arrested on Wednesday over the security breach in Parliament under charges of the anti-terror Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, an inquiry committee will investigate the reasons for the security breach in Parliament, identify any lapses, and recommend further action. “The Committee will submit its report with recommendations, including suggestions for improving security in Parliament, as soon as possible,” the MHA stated.