National Assembly (NA) speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Saturday suspended eight security guards of the assembly besides ordering the sergeant-at-arms to conduct an inquiry against them, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Quoting its sources, the channel reported that these guards, who were deputed at the Parliament House’s entrance, had allowed some persons inside the building who did not have cards with them.
Sources further disclosed that these unconcerned persons, after entering the House, forced some members of the National Assembly (MNAs) and federal ministers to have pictures with them.
Even Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had complained to the speaker about the presence of such people inside the building.
The minister had pointed out the gathering of people near the entrance, elevators, and corridors, saying their presence posed a threat to the security of the members of the parliament (MPs).
He stressed the need for strictly implementing the past practice of issuing passes to the NA members so that their security could be ensured.
Expressing dismay over disruptive behaviour in the gallery, the minister lamented individuals engaging in sloganeering, which he asserted “undermines the sanctity of the House”.
The NA speaker, in response, disclosed that he had already given instructions in this regard and subsequently a notice had also been issued by the secretariat dated May 14.
According to the notice, Gate No. 1 was to remain clear of visitors and staff to facilitate unimpeded entry of parliamentarians into the building and to deter people from unnecessarily congregating.
It sternly warned that any lapses within the security apparatus leading to failure in duty shall result in disciplinary action.
Furthermore, the notice explicitly prohibited the presence of TikTokers, YouTubers, Vloggers, and unaccredited social media activists around the Parliament House.
As per the notice, the Ministry of Interior, Islamabad Police, and other law enforcement agencies will collaborate with the NA security guards to manage the influx of visitors from the outer gates of the Parliament House.
Reporter: Usman Khan