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Context: Parliament security in India has come under scrutiny after an MP complained about the behaviour of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel.

Details

• The security arrangements at the Parliament House complex in India have undergone significant changes recently, particularly with the transition from the Parliament Security Service (PSS) to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Transition to CISF from PSS

• Background of PSS: The Parliament Security Service (PSS) and the Watch and Ward Committee historically managed security within the Parliament House complex. Established nearly a century ago, these entities were responsible for ensuring the safety and integrity of Parliament proceedings, members, officials, and visitors.
• Reasons for Change: The decision to replace PSS with CISF was prompted by a security breach in December 2023 when individuals breached security protocols by entering the Lok Sabha chamber. This incident highlighted vulnerabilities under the existing security framework.
• CISF Takeover: In April 2024, CISF personnel took over security responsibilities from the Delhi Police who were assisting PSS. The transition aimed to enhance security protocols and ensure a more robust defence against potential threats.

Responsibilities and Concerns

The responsibilities handed over to CISF include:

• Issuing passes for MPs, VIPs, and officials.
• Conducting security checks at entry points.
• Managing CCTV surveillance and control rooms.
• Regulating vehicular access and movement within the complex.
• Coordinating security during parliamentary sessions, meetings, and VIP visits.

Concerns Raised by MPs

• Some MPs have reported instances of perceived misconduct or inappropriate behaviour by CISF personnel.
• There is concern over the CISF’s background as primarily an industrial security force, raising doubts about their training and experience in handling parliamentary security with the required sensitivity and competence.

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha and other parliamentary officials have assured that while CISF has taken over operational security duties, ultimate oversight remains with the Parliament itself. CISF’s deployment and activities are accountable to the Joint Secretary (Security) under the Speaker’s direction.

Conclusion

• The transition of security responsibilities from PSS to CISF represents a significant change aimed at modernizing and strengthening security measures at the Parliament House complex. While the move intends to address past vulnerabilities, concerns about the suitability and conduct of CISF personnel highlights ongoing challenges in balancing security imperatives with the traditions and sensitivities of parliamentary democracy.

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Source:

Indian Express

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Parliamentary democracies rely on elected representatives to make complex decisions. However, these representatives may not always have the necessary technical expertise for every issue. How can a parliamentary system effectively balance the need for democratic representation with the need for specialized knowledge in policymaking?