New parliament building view in New Delhi, India. India’s Press Information Bureau/ Handout via REUTERS
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled India’s newly constructed parliament building on Sunday (May 28), marking a significant step in the Hindu nationalist government’s initiative to transform the British colonial-era architectural landscape in New Delhi. The inauguration of the modern complex aligns with Modi’s vision of infusing Indian culture, traditions, and symbols into the heart of the nation’s capital.
The timing of the event holds political significance as it precedes the parliamentary elections scheduled for the following year. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intends to leverage its strong Hindu nationalist stance and highlight its performance during its tenure in office over the past decade, as it seeks a third term.
In the early hours of the morning, Prime Minister Modi participated in traditional prayers outside the parliament complex. Several top cabinet ministers joined him in the ceremony, which culminated with the lighting of a traditional lamp within the parliament.
However, the event was marred by the absence of 20 opposition parties who boycotted it. They claimed that Modi had disregarded protocol by inaugurating the new complex and seizing the limelight, a responsibility that should have been bestowed upon the president, the highest executive authority in the country.
During an interview with the news agency ANI, Supriya Sule, an opposition leader, voiced her dissatisfaction by asserting that the inauguration of the new parliament building without the opposition’s presence does not signify a true democracy in the country. According to Sule, the event is deemed incomplete without the participation of all political factions, highlighting the ongoing political tensions in India.
Notwithstanding the contentious circumstances surrounding the event, the newly unveiled parliament building serves as a powerful emblem of India’s ambitions to reimagine its architectural character and pay homage to its abundant cultural legacy. The construction of this monumental structure signifies the nation’s determination to redefine its identity through its built environment, blending contemporary elements with a deep-rooted sense of heritage.
The controversy surrounding the absence of the opposition parties during the inauguration reflects the polarized nature of Indian politics. While the event’s boycott underscores the deep-seated divisions and disagreements between the ruling party and the opposition, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in fostering a cohesive and inclusive political environment.
Despite the dissent, the new parliament building stands as a testament to India’s continuous pursuit of progress, embodying the aspirations of a nation while embodying its historical and cultural significance.
Security personnel maintain a vigilant stance outside India’s newly inaugurated parliament building in New Delhi, India, on May 28, 2024. REUTERS/Adnan Abidi
The opposition’s claim that protocol was breached during the inauguration of the new parliament building has been firmly rejected by the Modi government. They assert that no violations occurred and emphasize the prime minister’s deep regard for the constitutional head of the country.
At the heart of a massive project worth US$2.4 billion, the newly constructed parliament complex takes centre stage. The ambitious initiative aims to overshadow the historical importance of colonial-era structures that currently dominate the capital’s central area. By introducing modern buildings that embody a unique Indian identity, the government seeks to redefine the architectural landscape of the city.
The Modi administration firmly maintains that all necessary protocols were followed during the inauguration ceremony, dispelling allegations of impropriety. They emphasize the prime minister’s unwavering respect for the constitutional head, highlighting his commitment to upholding democratic values and principles.
With the completion of the new parliament building, a transformative chapter begins in the capital’s urban development. The extensive project signifies the government’s dedication to creating a contemporary and culturally rooted environment. By infusing the architectural landscape with structures that reflect India’s rich heritage, the aim is to foster a sense of national pride and establish a distinct Indian identity.
The multi-billion-dollar endeavour represents a significant investment in the future of the capital, intending to leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. As the project unfolds, it is poised to shape the visual narrative of the city, instilling a sense of unity and progress while paying homage to the country’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Modi praised the new Parliament on Twitter, describing it as a symbol of democracy that embodies the country’s rich heritage and optimistic vision for the future. The triangular-shaped complex stands opposite the old circular building, designed by British architects Lutyens and Baker in 1927, before India’s independence.
The old parliament will be repurposed as a museum. The new structure features advanced technology and boasts a total of 1,272 seats across two chambers, accommodating nearly 500 more seats than its predecessor and providing ample space for lawmakers in the world’s most populous nation.
