Parliament tightens security post Lok Sabha breach

The Delhi Police has registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in connection with the security breach at Parliament.

Following the security breach in the Lok Sabha on December 13, presence of security personnel has been intensified from Gaja Dwar to Hamsa Dwar, and from Makara Dwar to Shardula Dwar in the Parliament building.

Makara Dwar, which faces the entrance to the old Parliament building, has received significant attention regarding security measures after Parliamentarians complained of constant heavy crowds outside the gate during the all-party meet.

As of now, the administration has designated Makara Dwar exclusively for use by Members of Parliament, while media personnel will have access through Shardula Dwar.

During the meeting, many MPs suggested installing a glass ceiling in the visitors’ gallery, a proposal currently under consideration by the government. An order regarding this is expected to be released soon, said an officer privy to the development.

The change in the security scenario was experienced by the Parliament staff on Thursday morning, when deployed personnel of the security agencies were checking their shoes also.

The Parliament Complex will also have body scan machines, similar to those in airports and when all measures are put in place, visitors’ entry will be allowed only from Shardula Dwar.

The new Parliament building has six gates- Gaja Dwar, Ashwa Dwar, Garuda Dwar, Makar Dwar, Shardula Dwar and Hamsa Dwar designated for Prime Minister, Vice President, Speaker, VIPs and visitors.

On December 13, two intruders jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber with passes that were endorsed by BJP Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha.

As per rules, the security staff in the visitors’ gallery must maintain a strict vigil and ensure that the visitors do not indulge in any misbehavior.

What is the entry process of visitors?

The entry of visitors (referred to as “strangers” in parliamentary terms) is governed by Rule 386 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Lok Sabha.

The issuance of visitor passes for Parliament is regulated by directives established by the Speaker, and these regulations apply equally to both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

The rule, addressing “admission, withdrawal, and removal of strangers,” stipulates that “the admission of strangers during the sittings of the House to those areas not exclusively reserved for members shall be managed in accordance with directives issued by the Speaker.”

When applying for visitors’ cards, members are required to provide a certificate stating, “The aforementioned visitor is either my relative, personal friend, or someone known to me personally, and I assume full responsibility for their conduct.”