New Delhi: In an unexpected turn of events, Lalit Jha, the alleged mastermind of the recent Parliament breach, surrendered to the Delhi Police on Thursday. This came on the heels of the apprehension of five individuals in connection with the audacious security breach that sent shockwaves across the nation.
Who Is Lalit Jha?
Mysterious Disappearance and Surrender: Lalit Jha, hailing from Bihar, had been in hiding since the incident. The police revealed that he was employed as a teacher in Kolkata. However, on Thursday, he surrendered at Kartavya Path, Police Station near Parliament, marking a significant development in the investigation.
Legal Ramifications: The authorities have slapped charges on five men and a woman under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and various sections of the Indian Penal Code, signalling the seriousness of the security breach.
Inspiration from Bhagat Singh: Lalit Jha’s actions were reportedly inspired by the legendary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh. According to the police, he recorded videos of the individuals responsible for deploying smoke canisters outside the parliament. These videos were then handed over to the founder of an NGO to ensure media coverage. Jha had held the position of general secretary in the NGO, which Nilaksha Aich oversaw.
Quiet Academic Background: Described as a reserved individual, Lalit Jha pursued a career as a teacher, instructing local students. A few years ago, he originally arrived in Burrabazar, Kolkata, maintaining a low profile. However, he abruptly left the area two years ago, leaving locals puzzled about his sudden departure, as shared by a tea stall owner in the neighbourhood.
Parliamentary Intrusion: The orchestrated breach involved two men, Sagar and Manoranjan, who successfully smuggled smoke bombs into the parliament using a pass issued by a BJP MP’s office. They infiltrated the Lok Sabha from the visitors’ gallery, triggering the smoke canisters amidst the chaos of scrambling MPs. Additionally, Neelam Devi and Amol Shinde, unable to secure a pass, resorted to a protest outside the parliament building, vociferously shouting slogans and brandishing smoke canisters before being apprehended.
The unfolding details surrounding Lalit Jha and the orchestrated smoke scare reveal a complex narrative that intertwines political activism, historical inspiration, and an individual with a seemingly ordinary background.