New
Delhi: The
nation was shocked at 11.45 am on 13 December when terrorists
attacked the Parliament House. Immediately after the initial
blasts were reported from Gate 4, security forces shot down
five intruders who are believed to be terrorists. In the
gun-battle that followed six Delhi policemen were killed.
Nearly 30 people injured in the attack have been admitted
to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. A series of gunfire and explosions
was also heard from Gate 12.
The attack happened just as ministers and members of Parliament
were getting ready to leave the House, which was adjourned
after an Opposition pandemonium over the ongoing coffins
scam. Immediately after the attack, Prime Minister A B Vajpayee
convened an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Committee on
Security.
Defence Minister
George Fernandes said the terrorists tried to lob hand-grenades
into the Parliament building, but were not successful.
Both Fernandes and Law Minister Arun Jaitley confirmed
that though the terrorists had in fact penetrated the
compound, they had failed to enter the main building.
Vajpayee was not in the Parliament when the attacks happened.
Home Minister L K Advani and other senior ministers have
been moved to a secure location within the Parliament
complex. No group has so far claimed responsibility for
the attack.
Advani said: The terrorists behind the attack will pay
dearly for their misadventure. The entire country will
condemn
the attack on the highest legislative body. No effort
would be spared in tracking down the people behind this
act of terror.
In Mumbai, security has been tightened and police presence
at entry and exit points intensified.
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