Man tries to jump onto Lok Sabha floor, held

A man was detained on Friday after he attempted to jump onto the Lok Sabha floor from the visitors gallery.

Eyewitnesses said accused Rakesh Singh Baghel -- who was apprehended by security personnel present at the spot -- tried to say something but was gagged by securitymen. He was later whisked away for questioning.

He hails from Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan told the House.

Baghel held a valid entry pass to enter Parliament House, recommended by Bulandshahr Member of Parliament Bhola Singh.

The Speaker had left the House when the incident occurred around 11.20 a.m., soon after the House was adjourned till noon amid a ruckus by the opposition over the Centre's November 8 demonetisation decision.

The Speaker later sought the House's opinion on the issue.

Delhi Police and Parliament security officials in plainclothes usually remain seated in the front rows of the visitors gallery.

Lok Sabha sources said visitors are allowed to watch the House proceedings after they fill up application forms giving their name, age, occupation, full local address and permanent address etc.

One sitting MP has to countersign the form for recommendation. Children below the age of 10 are not allowed entry to the visitors gallery.

--IANS

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