Parliament security breach: Detailed timeline unveils intricate planning

New Delhi: The shocking breach of security at the Parliament, which unfolded on Wednesday, December 13 had its roots in a meticulously planned scheme dating back to 2022. Here's a detailed timeline of events leading to the audacious act:

1. 2022 Planning in Mysuru: Lalit Jha, Sagar Sharma, and Maoranjan D met in Mysuru and hatched a plan to barge into the Parliament to draw national attention.

2. Formation of the Group: Later, Neelam and Amol joined the plan after the group connected on social media over four years, eventually joining a Bhagat Singh fan page on Facebook.

3. Recce During Monsoon Session (July 2023): Maoranjan, following Lalit's instructions, conducted a reconnaissance of the Parliament building during the Monsoon Session and noted the lack of security checks on visitors' shoes.

4. Gathering in Gurugram days before intruding: The group gathered at Vishal Sharma's residence in Gurugram from Sunday to Tuesday.

5. The attack day Morning: The five, armed with visitors' passes procured through Mysore-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha, left for the Parliament building on Wednesday morning.

6. Intrusion into Lok Sabha: Sagar and Manoranjan entered the new Parliament building, reaching the visitors' gallery. Around 1 pm, Sagar jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber, while Manoranjan attempted the same and was seen hanging from the gallery railing.

7. Gas Release and Capture: Both released yellow gas from concealed canisters in their shoes, causing chaos. MPs overpowered and thrashed them, handing them over to security. Simultaneously, Neelam and Amol released gas outside, Lalit recorded a video shared on Instagram. Neelam and Amol were caught, while Lalit escaped.

8. Detention and Arrest: All four - Sagar, Manoranjan, Neelam, and Amol - were taken to Parliament Street Police Station. Vishal and his wife were also detained. Delhi Police, including the Special Cell, joined the investigation.

9. Arrest Under UAPA: After hours of questioning, Sagar, Manoranjan, Neelam, and Amol were arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. A city court appearance is expected later in the day.

10. Manhunt for Lalit: The Anti-Terror Unit's Special Cell is actively searching for Lalit, identified as the main conspirator, who is currently absconding.

The unfolding investigation is shedding light on the extent of planning involved in this daring breach and the lapses in security protocols that allowed it to occur.