Amidst heightened tensions and disruptions in the Rajya Sabha, Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament, Derek O’Brien, faced suspension from the Upper House for the duration of the ongoing Winter Session. The decision came in the wake of what was termed as “ignoble misconduct” on O’Brien’s part during parliamentary proceedings.
The controversy unfolded when O’Brien raised concerns over a recent security lapse in Parliament. Earlier in the week, the nation witnessed a startling breach as two individuals breached security protocols, entering the Lok Sabha from the visitors’ gallery and deploying yellow smoke canisters.
Expressing grave concerns over O’Brien’s conduct, Rajya Sabha Chair, Jagdeep Dhankar, remarked on the severity of the misconduct. The Chair further criticized O’Brien for allegedly disregarding parliamentary decorum.
Despite stringent warnings from the Chair, O’Brien, along with several other Opposition members, initiated protests within the House during its morning session. Their primary demand was the presence and statement of Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, regarding the security lapse.
Following the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha session, Dhankar highlighted the initiation of a comprehensive investigation into the security breach. Additionally, legal actions, including a police case, have been instituted against the perpetrators, with four individuals implicated under the stringent anti-terror legislation, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
In a subsequent development, the Rajya Sabha has forwarded O’Brien’s conduct issue to the Committee of Privileges for a detailed inquiry. The committee has been mandated to furnish its findings within a three-month timeframe.
