Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien expressed concerns on Thursday, stating that Parliament has transformed into a "deep, dark chamber," and he accused the central government of maintaining silence regarding the security breach incident.
Taking to X, O’Brien drew a comparison with the 2001 Parliament attack, highlighting that following the incident, there was a comprehensive discussion within three working days. During that time, the Prime Minister addressed the Rajya Sabha, and the Home Minister made a statement in the Lok Sabha.
In contrast, O’Brien lamented the current scenario, noting the government's silence on the 2023 breach. He pointed out that despite 146 MPs being suspended for demanding a discussion and a statement from the Home Minister, the government remained mum. This, according to him, has turned Parliament into a "deep, dark chamber."
The security breach occurred on December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack, when two individuals entered the Lower House chamber, released yellow gas, and shouted slogans before being subdued by MPs during the Zero Hour.
In response to the incident, opposition MPs sought a discussion on the breach and a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah. However, their demands were met with strong actions, with 100 opposition MPs in Lok Sabha and 46 in Rajya Sabha being suspended for indiscipline during the session, leading to frequent adjournments.
Derek O’Brien, as the first Rajya Sabha MP to face suspension, also had a breach of privilege motion lodged against him for remaining in the House after suspension. This matter has been referred to the Privileges Committee of the House. Referring to parliamentary records, O’Brien noted that after the December 2001 attack on Parliament, a debate was conducted in both Houses, and the then Home Minister LK Advani responded to the debate, with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee making interventions in both Houses.
