Mann’s antic may lead to new rules for MPs

AFTER THE PARLIAMENT ATTACK IN 2001, A COMMITTEE ROPED IN TO SUGGEST ENHANCED SECURITY FOR THE COMPLEX

: Acting against Aam Aadmi Party’s parliamentarian Bhagwant Mann will be an easier task for Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan — her bigger challenge lies in addressing the security breach exposed by the lawmaker’s video.

Mann’s antic may compel the Lok Sabha to bring in new rules or measures as deterrents against such casual behaviour that may leave the security apparatus vulnerable in the Parliament complex.

The AAP leader on Thursday recorded the journey from his home to the Parliament and uploaded the video on Facebook, exposing the security system and some parts of the Parliament building from inside. “The radio frequency tag system for cars stands vulnerable. The video shows the position of security guards. He has given potential terrorists a guide on how to enter the Parliament and what to find inside the building,” said a senior security official.

Sources added that after this incident, the entry point of MPs’ cars may be guarded and the radio frequency system may be overhauled. Mahajan has sought a detailed report from the Parliament’s watch and ward cell — in charge of the security of the House — to get a sense of how far Mann’s video has breached the security arrangement. The cell may also suggest new measures to the Speaker.

After the Parliament attack in 2001 where 13 civilians were killed, a committee of experts was roped in to suggest enhanced security for the complex. Many entry points were closed, barricades were erected, more paramilitary security was deployed at vulnerable points, a biometric system was introduced for visitors, and a part of the Talkatora Road made off-limits to the public. These measures are said to have given the Parliament building foolproof security.

Mahajan has started consulting senior parliamentarians and may ask for new rules to stop MPs from Mann-like acts, even outside the House. There are strict rules of business and conduct inside the House when it is in session but a code of conduct for MPs in other areas of the Parliament complex is not so well-defined.