Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien expressed concerns over the government’s silence on the security breach at Parliament, stating that it has turned into a “deep, dark chamber.” O’Brien drew a comparison with the 2001 Parliament attack.
O’Brien stated, “2001 Parliament attack: In 3 working days, a full discussion in Parliament. PM gave statement in Rajya Sabha, Home Minister in Lok Sabha.”
He said, unlike the response in 2001, the current government remained silent on the recent breach, leading to the suspension of 146 MPs who demanded a discussion and a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah.
He further noted the procedural differences, stating, “2023 breach: GOVT SILENT. Parliament turned into a deep, dark chamber.” O’Brien said that in 2001, within three working days after the attack, Rajya Sabha had conducted a discussion.
Detailing the 2001 response, O’Brien said, “The Minister of External Affairs, speaking on behalf of the Home Minister, provided a detailed statement. The discussion lasted two days from 18th to 19th December, and then Prime Minister Vajpayee delivered a statement on the second day. Home Minister L K Advani addressed the Lok Sabha on 19 December, 2001.”
The recent security breach occurred on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack. Two persons jumped into the Lower House chamber, releasing yellow gas and shouting slogans during the Zero Hour.
Opposition MPs, demanding a discussion on the breach and a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah, faced suspension, with O’Brien being the first Rajya Sabha MP to be suspended. A breach of privilege motion has also been initiated against him for remaining in the House after suspension, referred to the Privileges Committee of the House.
