The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has implemented a revised posting policy for its personnel deployed at the Parliament House Complex (PHC), increasing the tenure from three to four years. This change aims to bolster security measures and operational readiness at the Parliament. The policy revision comes after a security breach in December 2023, prompting a comprehensive review and upgrade of security protocols.
CISF's revised policy includes the possibility of extending the tenure for an additional year based on the individual's suitability and performance. The extended tenure is expected to enhance the personnel's familiarity with Members of Parliament (MPs), their movement patterns, and the complex layout of the Parliament, all of which are crucial for accurate identification, secure access control, and effective threat detection. CISF officials stated the changes will ensure operational continuity while also allowing for the infusion of new personnel, as a fixed proportion of the security staff will be rotated annually.
In addition to the extended tenure, CISF has introduced stricter eligibility criteria for personnel assigned to Parliament duty. These include a clean service record, being in the SHAPE-I medical category, absence of disciplinary or vigilance concerns, completion of at least two specialized courses, and meeting rank-specific age requirements. The CISF has also instituted a mandatory multi-stage screening process that includes psychological assessments, the Battle Physical Efficiency Test (BPET), Parliament-specific induction training, and comprehensive security clearance. Only those who successfully complete all stages will be deployed for Parliament duties.
CISF took over the security of the Parliament complex on May 20, 2024, assuming responsibility for all core security layers, including access control, perimeter and internal security, counter-terrorism and counter-sabotage response, bomb threat management, and fire and disaster preparedness. A contingent of over 3,300 personnel, including more than 200 fire and disaster management specialists, has been deployed to introduce airport-style security protocols, such as advanced frisking, X-ray baggage checks, and multi-level access verification.
To maintain high readiness levels, CISF is conducting regular scenario-based mock drills that simulate various threat scenarios, including bio-terror incidents, terrorist attacks, drone threats, cyber-attacks, bomb threats, evacuation operations, and air contamination situations. Fire contingency elements are integrated into all exercises. Night-firing exercises are also conducted to improve accuracy in low-light conditions. Furthermore, annual psychological tests and BPET will be conducted for all personnel, with BPET for Quick Response Team personnel continuing on a monthly basis.
The enhanced security measures and revised posting policy reflect CISF's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of security and preparedness at the Parliament House Complex.
