Bengal lawyer petitions Supreme Court for judicial probe into Parliament breach
The Supreme Court has been petitioned by West Bengal lawyer Abu Sohel, urging for a judicial investigation into the breach of Parliament that occurred on December 13. Sohel has highlighted the potential security risks posed by the breach, expressing concern over the possibility of harmful substances being introduced inside. The Court, currently closed for winter break, is scheduled to reopen on January 2, 2023.
During the breach, two individuals, identified as Sagar Sharma and Manoranjan D, jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber from the visitor gallery, causing disruption and shouting slogans. Additionally, two others, Amol Shinde and Neelam Devi, accompanied them, with one spraying yellow-colored gas and shouting slogans outside the Parliament premises. All four perpetrators have since been arrested under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), charged with engaging in a terror act.
The petition filed by Sohel emphasizes the need for robust security measures within the nation’s highest legislative body, stating that insufficient security not only endangers the lives of citizens but also jeopardizes national interests. The petition, presented through advocate Shruti Bisht, calls for an independent and credible judicial investigation supervised by a retired Supreme Court judge.
The breach occurred on the occasion of the 22nd anniversary of the December 13, 2001 attack on Parliament. The investigation conducted by Delhi police led to the surrender of alleged mastermind Lalit Jha five days after the incident. Subsequently, another suspect connected to the conspiracy was arrested. The probe revealed that the two individuals who entered Parliament had concealed smoke canisters within custom-made shoes as part of their plan.
The petition has named the Union government and the Delhi police commissioner as parties to the plea, seeking their attention and action towards addressing the major security breach in the lower House of Parliament.
As the Supreme Court considers reopening following the winter break, the demand for a judicial probe into the Parliament breach adds urgency to the matter. The petition emphasizes the need for comprehensive investigation to ensure the safety and security of the nation’s highest legislative body and its members.
