NEW DELHI: Security at the Parliament in New Delhi underwent significant changes following a breach in the Lok Sabha. On Thursday, security personnel stationed at the outer gates began insisting that individuals remove their shoes, a departure from previous practices. Even after conducting thorough checks on those entering the premises, including frisking, personnel now require the removal of shoes—a procedure reminiscent of airport security where footwear, particularly long or leather boots, needs to be inspected.
This new protocol was implemented after Manoranjan D and Sagar Sharma were apprehended for trespassing into the Lok Sabha. The individuals leaped from the visitors' gallery and released smoke canisters hidden in their shoes. Consequently, security measures have been universally heightened for everyone entering the Parliament, including staff and accredited media personnel holding individual passes.
Additionally, media representatives have been instructed to stand approximately 50-60 meters away from the 'Makar Dwar,' one of the main entry gates through which most legislators access the premises.
Following the breach, four individuals were arrested under the anti-terror Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Manoranjan D and Sagar Sharma were taken into custody for breaking into the Lok Sabha and deploying smoke canisters from the visitors' gallery. Neelam Azad and Amol Shinde were apprehended outside Parliament after similarly releasing smoke canisters.
Prompted by the breach, the Secretary General of Lok Sabha addressed concerns to the Ministry of Home Affairs, leading to the suspension of visitor gallery passes until further notice. The Ministry subsequently initiated an inquiry into the security breach, forming a committee chaired by Anish Dayal Singh, Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force, along with members from various security agencies and experts.
The committee's mandate includes investigating the breach, identifying security lapses, and recommending necessary actions to bolster Parliament's security. The Ministry of Home Affairs anticipates prompt submission of the committee's report with pertinent suggestions for enhancement.
Earlier discussions between Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and political party leaders acknowledged the breach and promised a review of security measures. The breach occurred on the 22nd anniversary of the Parliament terror attack when the intruders disrupted proceedings during Zero Hour in the Lower House, releasing yellow gas from canisters and shouting slogans before being subdued by legislators. This incident prompted the House's adjournment until 2 pm on Wednesday, interrupting discussions on urgent public matters and an issue raised by BIP MP Khagen Murmu.
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