New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his final speech at the old Parliament building on Tuesday, suggested renaming it as “Sambidhaan Sadan” (Constitution House).
The proposal comes as Indian parliamentarians are set to shift to the new Parliament building on September 19.
In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that the old Parliament should not merely be referred to as “old Parliament.” He put forth the idea that the historic building should be called the Constitution House, because it had served as the seat of the Constituent Assembly, highlighting its role in shaping India’s Constitution. He expressed his belief that this name change would ensure that the old Parliament continues to inspire future generations of parliamentarians.
PM Modi also discussed India’s rich heritage, stating: “If we merge this rich heritage with our dreams and resolutions, and if our thought canvas expands, we will undoubtedly be able to paint the picture of a magnificent India. We will be able to fill this picture with vibrant colours and present this beautiful, colourful, and grand image of Mother India to future generations.”
“No matter what reforms we undertake for the country, the ‘Indian Aspiration’ should be its foundation. The Indian Aspiration must hold the highest priority in all our actions,” he added.
During the farewell event for the old Parliament building, various leaders, including BJP MP Maneka Gandhi, leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, addressed the gathering.
The old Parliament building, which will no longer serve as the seat of India’s legislative activities, commenced operations on January 18, 1927, when it operated as the Imperial Legislative Council. From August 15, 1947 to September 18, 2023, it has functioned as the Parliament of India.