New Delhi, December 14, 2023: In a decisive move, the Lok Sabha passed a resolution on Thursday to suspend five Congress Members of Parliament (MPs) for the remainder of the winter session. The Speaker named T N Prathapan, Hibi Eden, Jothimani, Ramya Haridas, and Dean Kuriakose for their role in disrupting House proceedings.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi presented the resolution during a session marked by chaos. The MPs were accused of showing “utter disregard to the House and the authority of the Chair.” The resolution moved amid a din, was swiftly approved.
Chairing the proceedings, B Mahtab took charge as Opposition members demanded a government statement on the recent Lok Sabha security breach. The Speaker, Om Birla, emphasized that the Lok Sabha Secretariat bears responsibility for the security of the Parliament complex.
Earlier in the week, a security breach occurred when two individuals jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber, shouting slogans and releasing colored smoke. The intruders had obtained visitor passes from a BJP MP.
During Thursday’s session, the Speaker named three Congress members and warned against further disturbances before adjourning proceedings. The suspension resolution followed as a response to the MPs’ alleged misconduct.
The ongoing Winter Session faced disruptions as Opposition members demanded clarity on the security breach. Despite the chaos, a brief Question Hour took place, with the Speaker addressing the disruptive behavior before adjourning until 2 pm.
In response to the security breach, eight security personnel were suspended, hailing from various agencies on deputation for Parliament security. The detained intruders have been arrested, sparking concerns about the efficacy of the security measures in place.
The suspension of the five Congress MPs underscores the importance of maintaining decorum in parliamentary proceedings, especially in the wake of security concerns that have raised questions about the safety of the Parliament complex.
As the Winter Session continues, attention remains focused on addressing security lapses and ensuring the smooth functioning of parliamentary activities.