Live Updates: PM Unveils New Parliament, Installs ‘Sengol’ in Grand Inauguration Ceremony

Key Features:

• The newly constructed parliament building showcases the Ashoka Chakra prominently on its exterior façade, as well as within the chambers of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
• The recently completed Lok Sabha chamber in the new parliament building boasts a significant increase in seating capacity, accommodating up to 888 members, nearly triple the capacity of the existing chamber.
• The newly constructed Rajya Sabha complex has been meticulously designed with the lotus theme, embodying its symbolic significance. With a spacious seating capacity of 348 members, the new complex offers ample accommodation for the esteemed representatives.
• At the core of the new Parliament building lies the Constitutional Hall, an integral space designed to position citizens at the very heart of democracy. This hall is envisioned to symbolize the profound significance of public participation in the democratic process.
• The upcoming structure will incorporate a central lounge and an open courtyard, strategically designed to foster seamless interactions among its members. These thoughtful additions to the building aim to encourage and facilitate meaningful exchanges and collaborations among the parliamentary representatives.
• Dedicated to showcasing India’s steadfast commitment to sustainable development, the new Parliament Building stands as a platinum-rated green building. This distinguished certification underscores the building’s adherence to environmentally conscious practices, highlighting its contribution to a greener future.

During a momentous ceremony on Sunday, May 28, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the plaque commemorating the inauguration of the highly anticipated new Parliament building. As part of the ritual, the Prime Minister performed a puja and installed the revered ‘Sengol’ in the Lok Sabha chamber, positioned beside the Speaker’s chair. The historic ‘Sengol’ was presented to Mr. Modi by Adheenams before its placement in the new Parliament building.

Earlier, Home Minister Amit Shah revealed that the same ‘Sengol’ was accepted by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, at his residence on the eve of August 14, in the presence of esteemed leaders. The ceremony commenced with a traditional ‘puja’ accompanied by Vedic rituals, spanning an hour. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also graced the occasion alongside PM Modi.

In contrast, 19 Opposition parties, including the Congress, had previously declared their intention to boycott the new Parliament’s inauguration. In a joint statement, they emphasized the diminishing significance of a new edifice when the ‘soul of democracy has been drained from the Parliament.’ The four-storey building, constructed by Tata Projects Limited at an estimated cost of ₹970 crore, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of Ahmedabad-based HCP Design, Planning and Management.