Parliament Security Breach: Lok Sabha Secretariat Suspends 8 Security Personnel

The Lok Sabha Secretariat on Thursday suspended eight personnel for the security breach in Parliament on 13^th December, 2023.

The suspended security personnel are identified as Rampal, Arvind, Vir Das, Ganesh, Anil, Pardeep, Vimitt, and Narender.

This action was taken following a significant security breach on Wednesday when two intruders, namely Manoranjan D and Sagar Sharma, jumped into the Lok Sabha from the visitors’ gallery and opened smoke cans. They were subsequently arrested by the Delhi Police.

Two additional individuals, Neelam Azad and Amol Shinde, were also apprehended outside Parliament for opening similar smoke canisters. All four individuals have been charged under the anti-terror Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

The major security breach in the Lok Sabha occurred on the 22nd anniversary of the Parliament terror attack when the arrested intruders leaped into the Lower House chamber from the visitor gallery during Zero Hour. They moved from one seat to another, taking out canisters while MPs attempted to apprehend them. The intruders released yellow gas from the canisters and shouted slogans before being subdued by the legislators. The House was then adjourned until 2 pm on Wednesday.

The incident transpired while members were addressing matters of urgent public importance, and BJP MP Khagen Murmu was raising his concerns.

Following the breach of Parliament’s security, the Secretary-General of Lok Sabha wrote to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) requesting a review of security. A decision was made that no passes would be issued for the visitors’ gallery until further notice.

In response to the Lok Sabha Secretariat’s request, the MHA ordered an inquiry into the Parliament security breach incident. An inquiry committee was established under Central Reserve Police Force Director General Anish Dayal Singh, comprising members from other security agencies and experts.

As per the MHA, the inquiry committee will investigate the reasons for the security breach in Parliament, identify lapses, and recommend further action. “The Committee will submit its report with recommendations, including suggestions on improving security in Parliament, at the earliest,” the MHA stated.

Earlier on Wednesday, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met with leaders of political parties regarding the security breach incident. He acknowledged the concerns raised by Opposition leaders related to security and assured that a security review would be conducted.