Parliament Security: Lok Sabha Secretariat Issues Guidelines on Smart Cards and Facial Recognition

The Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued a reminder to Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding the use of smart cards and the Facial Recognition System for accessing the new Parliament building and other designated areas within the Parliament House.

New Delhi, December 13: Amidst a significant security breach in the Parliament, the Lok Sabha Secretariat has issued a timely reminder to Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding the usage of smart cards for accessing the new Parliament building. Additionally, the secretariat emphasized the availability of access to the Parliament House through building gates, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha lobbies, and specific other locations facilitated by the Facial Recognition System.

Smart Cards and Visitor Management System

In a bulletin, the secretariat highlighted that while numerous members possess smart cards, those who have yet to register for the Visitors Management System are urged to do so promptly. Clarifying the purpose of the instructions, a functionary stated that the guidelines are not new and have been issued consistently for several days.

Major Security Breach in Parliament

Regrettably, on the anniversary of the devastating 2001 Parliament terror attack, a major security breach occurred on Wednesday when two individuals breached the Lok Sabha chamber from the visitors gallery. The intruders shouted slogans and released yellow smoke from canisters, causing panic and chaos within the House. Consequently, five individuals have been detained in connection with the incident.

Guests of Mysuru MP

Notably, two of the individuals involved in the incident had gained access to the visitors gallery as guests of Mysuru Lok Sabha member Prathap Simha. In response to the criticism faced, Simha's office defended him, explaining that MPs routinely entertain such requests from members of their constituencies.

The Lok Sabha Secretariat's reminder regarding smart cards and the Facial Recognition System underscores the importance of robust security measures within the Parliament premises. The unfortunate security breach serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and effective protocols to safeguard the sanctity of the legislative body.