New Delhi
Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member Derek O’Brien has been suspended from participating in the remaining winter session of Parliament due to “gross misconduct” and “defiance of the Chair” during Thursday’s proceedings, which run until December 22. The Upper House passed a motion for O’Brien’s suspension after he insisted on discussing the recent security breach where intruders jumped into the Lok Sabha, releasing yellow smoke canisters.
Despite being named and asked to leave by Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, O’Brien and other opposition members persisted in their protest, demanding Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s presence to address the security breach. Trinamool MP Dola Sen also urged action against BJP MP Pratap Simha, who allegedly facilitated an accused individual’s entry to Parliament.
Simultaneously, the Lok Sabha secretariat suspended eight security personnel for Wednesday’s security lapse during the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack. The breach involved two individuals jumping into the Lok Sabha, releasing gas canisters, and shouting slogans before being subdued. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a security meeting with senior ministers, while opposition leaders called for statements in both houses. The new Parliament security measures include thorough checks and, uniquely, even MPs are required to remove shoes at the entrance gates. The Ministry of Home Affairs initiated an enquiry committee to investigate the breach, identify lapses, and propose enhanced security measures. The committee is expected to submit its recommendations promptly.
