Security – Delhi Assembly Plans New Surveillance Measures After Security Concerns
Security – The Delhi government has initiated plans to strengthen security arrangements at the Vidhan Sabha complex in the Civil Lines area following a recent breach and a series of false bomb threat calls. As part of the proposed measures, authorities intend to build a watchtower and create a dedicated patrol route along the perimeter wall of the Assembly premises to improve monitoring and emergency response capabilities.
Tender Issued for Security Enhancement Project
The Public Works Department (PWD) has invited bids for the proposed project. Officials said the move is aimed at addressing vulnerabilities identified after an intruder managed to gain unauthorized access to the Assembly compound earlier this year. The planned watchtower is expected to provide security personnel with a broader view of the premises, while the patrol track will support regular movement of security teams around the boundary.
According to senior officials, the project forms part of a wider effort to modernize security infrastructure and ensure better surveillance across the legislative complex. The PWD will be responsible for carrying out the construction work once the tender process is completed.
April Incident Prompted Review of Existing Arrangements
The decision comes in the wake of a security incident reported in April, when a masked individual allegedly entered the Assembly premises through one of the boundary gates. The breach raised questions about the effectiveness of existing protective measures and triggered a review of security protocols within the complex.
Authorities subsequently assessed the current arrangements and identified the need for additional infrastructure to improve monitoring and reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future.
Bomb Threats Added to Safety Concerns
Apart from the unauthorized entry case, security agencies were also alerted after Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta received multiple bomb threat calls during the annual Budget Session earlier this year. Although the threats were later determined to be hoaxes, the incidents highlighted the need for stronger preventive measures and quicker response mechanisms within the Assembly premises.
Officials said the combination of these events prompted a comprehensive examination of safety procedures, leading to the current proposal for enhanced surveillance and patrol facilities.
Mobile Patrol Vehicle Planned for Faster Response
To improve on-ground security operations, authorities are also considering the deployment of a dedicated mobile patrol vehicle within the Assembly campus. The vehicle would enable security personnel to move quickly across different sections of the premises and respond promptly to any suspicious activity or emergency situation.
The proposed patrol system is expected to complement the watchtower and patrol track, creating a more coordinated security network inside the legislative complex.
Access Points to Receive Additional Protection
In addition to surveillance improvements, officials are focusing on strengthening entry and exit points around the Assembly. Plans are being developed to reinforce gate infrastructure so that it can better resist attempts at forced entry.
Security experts involved in the review believe that stronger access controls, combined with continuous monitoring, will help improve overall protection of the premises and reduce potential security risks.
Details of the Earlier Security Lapse
One of the most significant incidents occurred in April when an unidentified vehicle entered the Legislative Assembly compound after breaking through an iron barricade. Reports indicated that the driver briefly stopped inside the premises, placed a bouquet in Speaker Vijender Gupta’s vehicle, and then left the area without being intercepted. The unusual episode drew widespread attention and intensified discussions on upgrading security arrangements at the Assembly complex.