Parliament Security Breach: 14 MPs suspended after major lapse sparks unruly scenes

New Delhi: In an unprecedented move, 14 Members of Parliament have faced suspension for their involvement in "unruly conduct" during the stormy aftermath of the significant security breach that shook Parliament on Wednesday. 

A total of 14 MPs, with 13 from the Lok Sabha and one from the Rajya Sabha, faced suspension on Thursday, marking a severe response to the tumultuous events that unfolded in Parliament after the shocking security breach the previous day. The suspension will persist for the remainder of the Winter Session.

Suspended: TMC leader Derek O'Brien

The chaos deepened as TMC member Derek O'Brien, previously warned for his conduct, bore the brunt of suspension from the Rajya Sabha for the remainder of the Winter session. Leader of the House Piyush Goyal initiated a motion against O'Brien, adopted through a voice vote, sealing his suspension.

Protests erupt in Lok Sabha

Protests and disruptive slogans echoed in the Lok Sabha as Opposition members demanded a government statement on the security breach. Speaker Om Birla countered, emphasizing that the responsibility for Parliament's security lies with the Lok Sabha Secretariat.

Opposition's outcry over Derek O'Brien's controversial suspension

The suspension of TMC leader Derek O'Brien triggered a wave of criticism from the Opposition, questioning the lack of action against the BJP MP responsible for authorizing the entry of one of the security breach culprits. CPI MP Binoy Viswam denounced O'Brien's suspension as "unwarranted, undemocratic, and politically motivated."

Five Congress MPs suspended

As chaos persisted, the Lok Sabha passed a resolution, suspending five Congress MPs - T N Prathapan, Hibi Eden, Jothimani, Ramya Haridas, and Dean Kuriakose Kuryakus - for the remainder of the session, citing disruptions in House proceedings.

Additional suspensions follow

The turbulence extended as nine MPs from Congress, two each from Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and one from CPI faced suspension in the Lok Sabha. Notably, SR Parthiban's inclusion was later clarified as a 'mistaken identity,' prompting the government to request the Speaker's correction.

What did the government say regarding these suspensions?

In a statement, Pralhad Joshi clarified that a total of 13 MPs were suspended from the Lok Sabha. Acknowledging an oversight, the government requested the Speaker to drop the name of an MP who was not present during the tumultuous events. The Speaker duly accepted this rectification.

As the dust settles on this parliamentary upheaval, the Winter Session stands marked by unprecedented suspensions, heated debates, and a political landscape in turmoil.