The seemingly impulsive incident of smoke crackers being burst within the Parliament chamber on December 13th masks a chilling reality: a carefully orchestrated plan hatched over a year and a half. Delhi Police investigations have unearthed shocking details of this premeditated act, raising serious questions about internal security and social media's role in radicalization.
The accused, hailing from diverse states, united in Gurugram before meticulously executing their plan. Sagar Sharma, the one who lit the crackers, had previously attempted reconnaissance in July. They used Facebook pages like "Bhagat Singh Fan Club" as communication channels, cultivating a radical mindset and potentially seeking wider support.
Investigation timelines paint a vivid picture. Meetings in Mysore and Maharashtra solidified the plan. On December 10th, all five gathered in Gurugram, with Lalit Jha arriving later that night. Smoke crackers, brought by Amol Shinde, were distributed near India Gate on December 13th. Sagar and Manoranjan, armed with visitor passes obtained by BJP MP Pratap Simha, entered the Parliament at noon, while Neelam and Amol created chaos outside.
While the accused come from ordinary families with no criminal history, their social media engagement fueled a dangerous ideology. Sagar's profiles, infused with revolutionary rhetoric, hinted at his desire to disrupt the status quo. The involvement of Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, offering legal aid to the accused, raises further concerns about external influences.
This meticulously planned breach exposes vulnerabilities in Parliament security. Around 150 vacant security posts and outdated equipment highlight a glaring need for immediate upgrades. Prime Minister Modi's meeting with senior ministers and the opposition's demand for Home Minister Amit Shah's statement reflect the gravity of the situation.
Beyond security questions, the investigation raises concerns about social media's role in radicalization. Platforms like Facebook, used by the accused, require active monitoring and proactive measures to prevent echo chambers of extremism.
The Parliament breach, however, presents an opportunity for national introspection. Radicalization often thrives in the shadows of socio-economic disparities and a sense of alienation. Addressing these root causes, alongside robust security measures and responsible social media engagement, is crucial to prevent future threats.
