CISF Enhances Parliament Security with Extended Tenure & Rigorous Screening
A revised posting policy implemented by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will see personnel deployed at Parliament serving a minimum of four years, up from the previous three-in a move designed to bolster security and address recent concerns regarding access control.
The policy shift comes after a security breach in the new Parliament building on December 13, 2023, which prompted the union Home Ministry to approve CISF’s deployment at the complex. Previously, security duties were handled by the Parliament Security Service, a unit established in 1950 and specializing in recognizing and interacting with Members of Parliament.
The extended tenure is intended to foster greater familiarity between CISF personnel and MPs, improving identification accuracy and strengthening security protocols.”The extended tenure will make CISF personnel more familiar with mps and their movement patterns in Parliament, which is critical for ensuring accurate identification, secure access protocols, layered threat detection and response,” a senior official stated.
the change also responds to complaints from parliamentarians, including DMK MP M.M. Abdulla, who in June 2024, reported being questioned by CISF personnel regarding his purpose for visiting the Parliament complex. Mr. Abdulla detailed in a letter to then Vice-President Jagdeep dhankhar that he was stopped and asked about his destination within the premises.
Comprehensive Security Takeover
since a phased takeover completed on May 20, 2024, the CISF has assumed obligation for all core security layers at Parliament, encompassing access control, perimeter and internal security, counter-terror and counter-sabotage measures, bomb threat management, and fire and disaster preparedness. This includes the deployment of over 3,300 personnel, with more than 200 specializing in fire and disaster management. The force has introduced airport-style security protocols, including advanced frisking, X-ray baggage screening, and multi-level access verification. Approximately 300 of the deployed personnel are women.
Stricter Eligibility & Continuous Training
The new policy introduces significantly tighter eligibility criteria and a multi-stage screening process. Personnel selected for Parliament duty must have a spotless service record,be in peak physical condition (SHAPE-I medical category),have no disciplinary issues,and have completed at least two specialized training courses,meeting rank-specific age requirements.
The screening process includes mandatory psychological assessments, a battle physical efficiency test (BPET), parliament-specific induction training, and comprehensive security clearances.”Only those qualifying all stages will be deployed for Parliament duties,” the official confirmed.
Ongoing training is a key component of the enhanced security posture. Personnel undergo regular on-site and off-site training sessions, even during parliamentary recesses.This includes specialized training customized by the National Security Guard and counter-terror training with the Indian Army.
Proactive Threat Mitigation
To maintain a high level of preparedness, the CISF conducts regular scenario-based mock drills simulating a wide range of threats, including bio-terror incidents, terrorist attacks, drone threats, cyber-attacks, bomb threats, evacuation operations, and air contamination. Fire contingency elements are integrated into all exercises, and night-firing exercises are conducted to enhance accuracy in low-light conditions.
Annual psychological tests and BPETs will be conducted for all personnel, with BPETs for Speedy Response Team members continuing monthly. The CISF is also implementing a rotational system, changing a fixed proportion of the deployed strength annually to ensure a balance between operational continuity and the infusion of fresh perspectives.
The Lok Sabha Speaker maintains overall charge of security at the Parliament complex, which comprises multiple buildings, while the CISF operates under the authority of the Home Ministry. This revised policy represents a significant investment in securing one of India’s most vital institutions, reflecting a commitment to proactive threat mitigation and enhanced parliamentary safety.
Image of CISF personnel at Parliament building. Photo Credit: Special arrangement
