A new chapter in the history of ‘New India’ was added with the foundation laying ceremony of the new Parliament House by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Most of us may not understand the significance of this day, but Indian democracy has no doubt leaped forward from the legacy colonial era, paving the way for a new era of nationalism. On the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, ‘Democracy in India has always been a means of resolving differences along with governance. Different views, different perspectives empower a vibrant democracy. Our democracy has moved forward with the goal that there is always room for differences so long as it is not entirely disconnected from the process.’
Modi said, ‘Policies and politics may vary but we are for the service of the public and there should be no differences in this ultimate goal. Whether debates occur within the Parliament or outside, the determination towards national service and dedication towards national interest should be reflected in them constantly.’ The new building is an intrinsic part of the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharath and will be a landmark opportunity to build a people`s Parliament for the first time after independence, one which will match the needs and aspirations of New India ahead of the 75th anniversary of independence in 2022, the Prime Minister added.
The new Parliament House will not have a Central Hall. At present, the old Parliament House has a central hall with a total capacity of 436 people. The joint session of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha has been held in this central hall till now. But due to low capacity, about 200 chairs have to be installed during the joint session in Central Hall. This raises the challenge of security. In such a situation, this problem will be removed in the new Parliament House. The design of the Lok Sabha Hall in the new Parliament House is being done so that a joint session can be held there easily. The new Lok Sabha Hall will seat 1,272 people.