In the aftermath of the security breach at Parliament, a series of enhanced security protocols have been revamped.
New Delhi:
Eight Lok Sabha personnel have been suspended and security measures revamped in the aftermath of the massive security breach at the Parliament complex on Wednesday afternoon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Parliament on Thirsday and took stock of the breach in a meeting that was attended by senior ministers including Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh.
The complex is now temporarily closed to visitors. During the breach, two individuals released yellow smoke canisters in the visitors’ gallery, and one person attempted to approach the Speaker’s Chair. Outside the complex, another man and a woman opened smoke canisters
In the aftermath of the incident, a series of enhanced security protocols have been revamped. Separate entrances have been designated for Members of Parliament (MPs), staff members, and the press, with visitors entering through a newly assigned fourth gate once access is reinstated. The issuance of visitor passes has been temporarily suspended.
In addition, the visitors’ gallery will now be encased in glass to prevent unauthorised entry into the Lok Sabha chamber. Body scan machines, similar to those in airports, will be installed within the Parliament premises. The number of security personnel inside the complex will also see a substantial increase.
An evening directive from the Home Ministry initiated a probe into the security breach, appointing the Chief of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to lead the investigation.
The sanctioned strength of security officials, spanning from Special Director (Security) to Security Assistant Grade – II, is 301, while the actual strength of 176, indicating a shortage of 125 personnel. The majority of vacancies are at the entry level. Among Security Assistant Grade – II positions, the actual strength is a mere nine against a sanctioned strength of 72. Similarly, for Security Assistant Grade – I, the actual strength stands at 24, falling short of the sanctioned strength of 69. Sources reveal that there has been no fresh recruitment in this domain for over a decade, PTI reported quoting sources.
During an all-party meeting convened by Speaker Om Birla, several leaders raised concerns regarding these staffing issues. Birla assured attendees that comprehensive corrective measures would be implemented following a thorough review. The Opposition is set raise the issue in Parliament and a delegation of leaders is also scheduled to meet the President.