Can You Visit The Parliament? Know Security Protocols And How MPs Get Visitors' Passes Issued

Following a significant security breach in the Parliament complex on Wednesday, the entire security apparatus is under scrutiny. The breach involved two individuals deploying yellow smoke canisters and one rushing towards the Speaker's Chair in the visitors' gallery, resulting an immediate overhaul of security measures. Two others were arrested from outside the Parliament building.

All individuals involved were reportedly linked to a social media page titled 'Bhagat Singh Fan Club.' The group had convened in Mysore approximately a year and a half ago.

Visitor Access Restricted: Enhanced Security Measures Implemented

The aftermath of the breach has led to a complete restriction on visitor access to the Parliament complex. In a comprehensive security overhaul, separate entrances have been designated for Members of Parliament (MPs), staff, and the press.

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While the security of the Parliament complex is managed by Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, and the Parliament Security Service (PSS), the recent breach has raised serious questions about the efficacy of existing security protocols. Despite multiple layers of security checks, the intruders managed to smuggle smoke canisters into the Lok Sabha and enter the House from the visitor's gallery.

Lok Sabha Handbook Guidelines on Visitors' Passes: Key Points

-Visitor Information Requirements:

MPs are required to provide detailed information about visitors, including full name, age, father's or husband's name, nationality, and passport number (for foreigners). Occupation details and other relevant particulars are also mandatory.

-MP's Certification Responsibility:

MPs must provide a certificate on the application form for the visitor card, stating, "The above-named visitor is my relation/personal friend/known to me personally and I take full responsibility for her/him". The MP takes full responsibility for the visitor.

-Issuance of Visitors' Cards:

Visitors' cards are issued on the day preceding the intended visit to the Lok Sabha public gallery.

-Application Process for Members:

MPs use a yellow-colored application form for visitors' cards, limiting the names to not more than four guests. The completed application form must reach the Centralised Pass Issue Cell by 4 pm on the working day before the requested date.

-Same-Day Visitors' Cards:

Under specific conditions, members can apply for same-day visitors' cards using a red-colored application form. Applications for same-day passes should be submitted to the Secretary General as early as possible on the same day.

To facilitate the issuance of same-day passes, the Deputy Leader or the Whip of the Party, authorised by the Party, should recommend the application.

Detailed Insight into Parliament Security Measures: PSS and Delhi Police's Roles

Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, and the specialised Parliament Security Service (PSS) collectively manage the security of the Parliament complex. PSS, led by a joint secretary-level officer, enforces three levels of security checks for visitors.

These checks occur at the entrance of the Parliament complex, the gate of the new Parliament building, and just before visitors enter the gallery. Visitors, including those recommended by MPs, undergo thorough security checks and are not allowed to carry items such as pens or books inside the House.

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Diplomats and foreign dignitaries, attending as personal guests of the Lok Sabha Speaker or Rajya Sabha chairman, receive special treatment as distinguished visitors. While some security protocols are relaxed for them, ordinary visitors, including those involved in the breach, go through a rigorous security process.