New Delhi: Democracy is a way of life and the soul of the nation’s life in India, unlike other countries where it is mostly about elections and governance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday.
In an address after laying the foundation stone for the new Parliament building, Modi noted that there should always be a place for “differences”, but not “disconnect”, in a vibrant democracy.
“Different views, different ideology strengthens a vibrant democracy. There can be a difference in policy and politics but we are here to serve the people and there should be no difference towards meeting this aim,” he said.
Calling the day a milestone in India’s democratic history, the PM said while the old Parliament building gave a new direction to India after Independence, the new one will be a witness to the building of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.
“In the old building, the work to fulfil the necessities of the nation was done. In the new building, the ambitions of India of the 21st century will be realised,” said Modi.
‘Every member of Parliament is accountable’
Before his address, Modi conducted the bhoomi pujan (ground-breaking ceremony) of the new Parliament building.
Several senior Cabinet ministers, ambassadors of many countries and other dignitaries were present for the occasion. Ratan Tata, chairman of the Tata Trust, which won the contract to build the new Parliament building, was also present. The ground-breaking ceremony was followed by an inter-faith prayer meeting.
In his address, Modi talked about how the old Parliament needed “rest”.
“What can be more beautiful, sacred than having a new Parliament inspire us when India celebrates 75th year of freedom. The current Parliament building is nearly 100 years old, it was upgraded many times, but now it needs rest,” the PM said.
He added that one should always remember their responsibility to keep alive the optimism and hope of democracy, which is the basis of the Parliament’s existence.
“We have to always remember that every member who has reached Parliament is accountable. The accountability is not only towards the people but also the Constitution,” Modi said.
Urging people to take the pledge of “India First”, the PM also noted that national interest should be supreme in every decision.
New Parliament building
The new triangular Parliament building, coming up at a cost of Rs 970 crore, is expected to be ready by 2022, in time to commemorate the 75th year of Indian Independence. It is part of the government’s ambitious Rs 20,000-crore Central Vista redevelopment project.
The present Parliament building, which is nearly 100 years old, has run out of space and the new building will increase its capacity manifold.
At present, only 543 MPs can be accommodated in the Lok Sabha chamber, which will be increased to 888 in the new building. Similarly, the Rajya Sabha’s seating capacity will also be increased to 384 members from 245 members currently.
For joint sittings, the Lok Sabha will be able to accommodate 1,272 members.
Spread in an area of 64,500 square metres, the new Parliament building is being designed by Gujarat-based HCP Design, Planning and Management Private Limited.
It will have four floors and separate access for the President, the PM, the Lok Sabha speaker and the Rajya Sabha chairperson. The new Parliament building will not have a Central Hall.
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