The Delhi High Court on Wednesday granted bail to two of the accused in the December 2023 Parliament security breach.
Justices Subramonium Prasad and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar allowed bail applications filed by Neelam Azad and Mahesh Kumawat, each on a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties of the same amount.
Bail Conditions & Restrictions
The bench imposed specific restrictions alongside the bail order. Both Azad and Kumawat were directed to refrain from giving interviews to media outlets or posting on social media about the incident. These measures aim to prevent any potential influence on the ongoing trial or public perception.
Challenge to Trial Court’s Order
Azad and Kumawat had initially approached the trial court seeking bail, but their plea was rejected. Contesting that decision, they moved the High Court, which found merit in their arguments and granted relief. The petition highlighted that neither Azad nor Kumawat had any prior criminal record, and the prosecution had not demonstrated a risk of flight or tampering with evidence.
The Zerohour Breach Explained
The case stems from a major security lapse on December 13, 2023, the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack. During Zero Hour, two accused—Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan D—allegedly jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber from the public gallery. They released yellow gas from canisters and chanted slogans before being overpowered by Members of Parliament.
Around the same time, outside the Parliament premises, two other accused—Amol Shinde and Neelam Azad—allegedly sprayed coloured gas from canisters while shouting “tanashahi nahi chalegi (dictatorship won’t work).” Authorities swiftly arrested all four individuals in connection with the breach.
Security Implications & Parliamentary Response
The incident exposed glaring gaps in parliamentary security protocols. Following the breach, Parliament’s security agencies initiated an exhaustive review of access controls and emergency response procedures. The Lok Sabha Secretariat has reportedly upgraded metal detection and surveillance systems.
Lawmakers across party lines condemned the lapse. Several MPs called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure accountability and to prevent such breaches in the future. The security agencies, meanwhile, are examining CCTV footage and eyewitness testimony to piece together the sequence of events.
Trial Proceedings Ahead
With bail granted to Azad and Kumawat, the trial will proceed with a four-member team facing charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The court has scheduled the next hearing for August 15, 2025, by which time the prosecution is expected to complete its evidence submission.
Looking Forward
While bail provides temporary relief to Azad and Kumawat, the court reaffirmed that the seriousness of the allegations remains undiminished. Both accused must appear at all court hearings and comply with the bail conditions. The outcome of the trial will hinge on the prosecution’s ability to establish intent and coordination among all four individuals involved in the breach.
(Inputs By Sambhav Sharma)
Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International
