CISF Overhauls Parliament Security Protocols After MPs Raise Concerns
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has implemented a comprehensive revision of its personnel posting policy for Parliament security duties. This significant policy shift comes in direct response to complaints about misbehavior received from several Members of Parliament.
Extended Tenure and Stricter Selection Criteria
Under the newly established framework, the standard deployment period for CISF personnel assigned to protect the Parliament House Complex has been increased. The tenure has been formally extended from three years to four years, with officials noting the possibility of a further one-year extension based on performance and suitability assessments.
This strategic extension is designed to bolster the force's counter-terrorist and anti-sabotage capabilities. A senior official explained that the longer tenure will allow personnel to develop a stronger familiarity with MPs and gain deeper insight into daily movement patterns within the complex, thereby enhancing overall security effectiveness.
The updated guidelines introduce much more rigorous selection standards. All personnel now must successfully clear several mandatory evaluations before deployment, including:
- A comprehensive psychological assessment
- The Battle Physical Efficiency Test (BPET)
- Specific induction training tailored to Parliament security
- Thorough security clearance procedures
Background and Enhanced Security Measures
This policy revision follows last year's significant security transition where the CISF replaced Delhi Police personnel who were previously deployed alongside the Parliament Security Service. This change was largely prompted by the major security breach that occurred on December 13, 2023, when individuals entered the Parliament Hall and released smoke canisters.
Since assuming responsibility, the CISF has taken charge of all core security layers at Parliament. Their comprehensive security umbrella now includes:
- Access control systems
- Perimeter and internal security
- Counter-terror and counter-sabotage response teams
- Bomb threat management protocols
- Fire and disaster preparedness units
The force has deployed a substantial contingent of over 3,300 personnel, which includes more than 200 specialists dedicated to fire and disaster management. This deployment introduced advanced, airport-style security protocols to the Parliament complex.
An official statement highlighted that the CISF has been consistently enhancing its capabilities to address emerging threats. The force has developed specialized training modules focusing on contemporary challenges including drone threats, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and handling potential CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiation and Nuclear) incidents.
These comprehensive changes represent a significant strengthening of India's parliamentary security apparatus, combining extended personnel tenure with advanced training and assessment protocols to ensure robust protection for the nation's legislative heart.
