New Delhi, September 19: In a momentous development, the Indian Parliament transitioned from its iconic circular Lutyens building to a colossal triangular structure adorned with a lion-topped capitol on the Central Vista, symbolizing a New India. The official notification marking this historic shift was announced today.
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Here are the key highlights of this significant development:
- Following a photo session and a special event held in the Central Hall of the old parliament building, the Prime Minister will lead the way to the new Parliament House while carrying a copy of the Constitution. Members of Parliament will follow suit on foot, convening in their respective chambers within the new parliament building.
- Esteemed political figures, including former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, JMM leader Shibu Soren, and BJP MP Maneka Gandhi, have been invited to address a special function in the Central Hall of Parliament, given their seniority in parliamentary service.
- The 96-year-old historic building, inaugurated in 1927 and known for hosting the "midnight hour" speech by Jawaharlal Nehru and the adoption of the Indian Constitution, was deemed inadequate for modern-day requirements, particularly in terms of information technology facilities and office spaces for MPs.
- The British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker designed the old building, which will be conserved as an archaeological asset of the country.
- Prime Minister Modi, in his address during the special parliamentary session, reflected on the significance of this transition, expressing hope for the future. He paid tribute to the 7,500 MPs who had served in the old building, remarking, "I salute every brick of this building." He also highlighted key milestones achieved in the past nine years, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the introduction of the "One Nation One Tax" GST.
- The new parliament building, inaugurated by PM Modi in May, is situated on Kartavya Path in the heart of Delhi. It has the capacity to accommodate 888 members in the Lok Sabha chamber and 300 in the Rajya Sabha chamber. In the event of a joint sitting of both houses, the Lok Sabha chamber can accommodate 1,280 MPs.
- Each Member of Parliament will have a 40-square-meter office space in the redeveloped Shram Shakti Bhawan, which is expected to be completed by 2024. The national archives will also be relocated from the old building to the new one.
- The four-story structure boasts a built-up area of 64,500 square meters and features three main gates: Gyan Dwar, Shakti Dwar, and Karma Dwar. Separate entrances are designated for VIPs, MPs, and visitors, each guarded by a composite animal.
- The architectural design draws inspiration from temples and scriptures. It includes a wall, "Jan Janani Janmabhoomi," adorned with artistry by grassroots artists. The building also incorporates three galleries dedicated to music, crafts, and architecture, showcasing India's rich heritage with contributions from artisans and sculptors nationwide.
- This historic move signifies a significant step forward in India's parliamentary history, providing modern amenities while preserving its revered historical roots. The new Parliament House symbolizes the aspirations and progress of a dynamic and evolving India.
- With inputs from agencies
