New Delhi [India], July 24 (ANI): During a hearing on the bail application of Manoranjan D, an accused in the 2023 Parliament security breach case, the Delhi High Court orally observed that any attempt to interrupt the functioning of Parliament could be considered a deeply alarming act with serious implications for national security.
A division bench comprising Justices Vivek Chaudhary and Shalinder Kaur made the observation in response to arguments by Manoranjan’s lawyer, who contended that his client’s use of non-toxic smoke canisters and slogans constituted a peaceful protest aimed at raising issues such as unemployment. The bench countered, “The best way to create terror in India is to disrupt the Parliament. You disrupted the Parliament.”
The breach occurred on December 13, 2023, when Manoranjan and Sagar Sharma jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber during a live session, while Neelam Azad and Amol Shinde staged protests outside. All four were arrested for their coordinated use of colored smoke devices.
More recently, the High Court granted bail to Neelam Azad and Mahesh Kumawat, with conditions that include furnishing a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties. The bail conditions also prohibit media engagement, mandate thrice-weekly visits to the local police station, and restrict travel outside Delhi.
Delhi Police opposed the bail pleas, citing evidence gathered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. Authorities argued that the accused posed a risk of absconding, influencing witnesses, and obstructing the investigation due to their public influence.
Defense counsel criticized the application of UAPA as excessive, claiming it was being used to suppress dissent. Allegations were also raised regarding the physical assault of the accused inside Parliament premises.
On June 7, 2024, Delhi Police filed a 1,000-page charge sheet against six individuals, outlining their roles in the security breach, which took place on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament attack. Prosecution sanction under Sections 16 and 18 of the UAPA was granted by the Lieutenant Governor, based on findings by the Tis Hazari Review Committee.
The original First Information Report (FIR), registered on December 14, 2023, included charges under Indian Penal Code Sections 186 (obstructing public servant), 353 (assault to deter public servant), 452 (house-trespass), 153 (provocation to cause riots), 34 (common intention), 120B (criminal conspiracy), along with sections of the UAPA. The case was later transferred to the Special Cell’s Counter-Intelligence Unit.
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