According to police sources disclosed, a meticulous planning involving six individuals led to a major security breach in Parliament on Wednesday. The breach raised significant concerns about the security apparatus within the new building, which reportedly boasts at least four layers of screening.
The identified individuals involved in the disruptive act include Sagar Sharma and D Manoranjan, who deployed yellow smoke canisters inside the Lok Sabha, while Neelam Devi and Amol Shinde set off red and yellow canisters outside the Parliament building. Additionally, Lalit Jha, in whose Gurgaon residence the group stayed, and Vicky Sharma from Gurgaon, were also apprehended.
Initial investigations have revealed that Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan, seated in the Lok Sabha's visitors' gallery, obtained entrance passes through BJP MP Pratap Sinha's office. The lawmaker has expressed his intention to explain these pass requests to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
These individuals from various locations - Lucknow, Mysuru, Latur, and Hisar - planned the disruption for four years and conducted reconnaissance of the Parliament complex. Although two gained access via passes, there is currently no evidence linking them to radicalization by any terror group, as per sources.
Further details have emerged, including the Aadhaar cards of Sagar Sharma and D Manoranjan. Neelam Devi, a 42-year-old teacher pursuing civil services, was reportedly involved in the 2020 farmers' protest but has no affiliation with any political party, according to her family.
This incident marks a significant breach 22 years after a terror attack on the old Parliament building. The disruption unfolded during a Zero Hour session in the Lok Sabha, prompting swift action as Sagar Sharma attempted to reach the Speaker's Chair but was subdued by MPs. Meanwhile, outside, Neelam Devi and Amol Shinde created distraction with smoke canisters and slogans.
All apprehended individuals are currently undergoing interrogation by the Delhi Police's anti-terror cell. Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned till Thursday 11 am, with Speaker Om Birla assuring MPs of a thorough investigation into the breach and the seizure of materials from the apprehended individuals.
