Security Breach in Lok Sabha on the Anniversary of the 2001 Parliament Attack: Chaos and Detentions Mark Troubling Incident
The Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of parliament, witnessed unprecedented chaos on Wednesday afternoon when two individuals breached security protocols. Initial reports suggested that the intruders carried gas canisters, creating a moment of panic and confusion among Members of Parliament (MPs).
The two intruders, identified as Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan from Mysore, were swiftly detained and are currently in police custody. Moreover, two protesters, Neelam (42) and Amol Shinde (25) were arrested outside Parliament for carrying cans emitting yellowish smoke.
An inquiry committee, including members from security agencies, has been formed to investigate the breach and recommend further actions to improve security.
Government Action and Investigation
Responding to the breach, the Ministry of Home Affairs promptly ordered an inquiry into the incident. The Enquiry Committee, featuring CRPF Director General Anish Dayal Singh and other security experts, will delve into the breach, identify lapses, and recommend necessary actions.
Sources indicate that six people were involved in the conspiracy. Two instigators caused chaos inside Parliament, while two others created disturbances outside. Authorities are currently intensifying their search for the remaining two suspects.
The incident occurred on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack, adding an unsettling layer to the breach.
Eyewitness Accounts: Chaos and Panic Inside Lok Sabha
According to accounts from MPs, chaos erupted while BJP MP Khargen Murmu was speaking. One individual jumped from the visitors’ gallery, hanging briefly from the barrier before descending into the House. Another person followed suit. The intruders proceeded to jump from bench to bench, leading to pandemonium.
The intruders, after being overpowered by some MPs, reportedly emitted a colorful gas from an object concealed in their shoes. This led to further panic, with MPs rushing out of the Lok Sabha chamber.
Reactions of Opposition Leaders
Opposition leaders provided vivid accounts of the incident. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury mentioned an individual dangling from the public gallery spraying “some kind of gas,” causing eye irritation. Chowdhury expressed concern over a security breach in the Lok Sabha on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack. He questioned the adequacy of security measures, highlighting the irony of an attack occurring inside the House on a day commemorating the sacrifice of brave hearts during the previous attack. Chowdhury commended MPs for apprehending the intruders but raised questions about the effectiveness of security officials during the incident.Trinamool Congress leader Kakoli Dastidar echoed similar statements, emphasizing the chaos ignited by the intruders.
Congress MP Karti Chidambaram expressed serious concerns, stating that the intruders, aged around 20, jumped into the House with canisters emitting yellow smoke. He highlighted the seriousness of the breach, especially on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack.
Speaker’s Assurance
The Lok Sabha was briefly adjourned, and security moved in to detain the individuals. After the Lok Sabha resumed proceedings, Speaker Om Birla assured a thorough investigation into the incident. He clarified that the emitted smoke was of an “ordinary kind,” alleviating concerns about toxicity.
Historical Context
The security breach coincidentally happened on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack by terrorists belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed outfits.
Previous Incident of Security Breach
This incident echoes a similar event on 25th November 2016, when a man attempted to jump from the Lok Sabha visitors’ gallery in protest against the government’s demonetization move.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
Four people, including Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan, were arrested, and one person named Vickey was detained. One suspect, Lalit Jha, remains on the run, prompting intensified search efforts.
Sources reveal that the six individuals involved meticulously planned the entire operation, staying together in Gurugram before executing the breach.
Way Forward
The security breach in the Lok Sabha on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack raises questions about parliamentary safety measures. The ongoing investigation is crucial to identifying any lapses and ensuring the robustness of future security protocols.
