MPs not under surveillance says PM

Prime Minister I K Gujral has denied that his government had authorised the Intelligence Bureau or any other surveillance agency to keep a watch on MPs within the precincts of Parliament.

"It is totally unauthorised, unlawful and punishable," the prime minister said during Question Hour when agitated members of the Rajya Sabha drew the deputy chairperson's attention to a report on such surveillance in a leading English daily.

The report said seven officials, belonging to the Special Enquiry and Surveillance Unit, monitor the activities of MPs.

The prime minister urged Deputy Chairperson Dr Najma Heptulla to look into the matter. "I am at your disposal once you reach any conclusion," he said.

Gujral said no efforts, either known to him or otherwise, were being made by the government to keep MPs under surveillance.

"If you find an Intelligence person, throw him out," he told Dr Heptulla. Gujral said only the Special Protection Group personnel came to Parliament. They were easily identifiable, he added.

As soon as the House assembled for the day, V K Malhotra (BJP) and Vayalar Ravi (Congress) sought the deputy chairperson's permission to raise the matter. Malhotra also alleged that the telephones and mail of a number of MPs were being tapped and scrutinised.

John Fernandes (Congress) said Intelligence Bureau operatives have been present in the central hall for years.