[Answered] Analyze the symbolic significance of the new Parliament building in the context of India’s democratic ethos. How does it reflect the changing dynamics of political governance in the country?

Recently, the Indian Prime Minister inaugurated India’s new Parliament building, part of the revamped Central Vista project. The recently inaugurated new Parliament building is a remarkable achievement and a symbol of the nation’s progress. The construction of the new building, designed by Architect Bimal Patel, began in 2019.

Significance of New Parliament building in India’s democratic ethos:

• Symbol of democracy: The Parliament building serves as the nucleus of India’s democratic system, providing a platform for elected representatives to convene, deliberate, and enact legislation. It signifies the perpetuation and strengthening of democratic values within the country.
• Inclusivity: The planning and construction of the new Parliament building can underscore inclusivity by addressing the requirements of an expanding community of parliamentarians, support staff, and visitors. This underscores the notion that democracy must be accessible to every citizen, and it demonstrates the government’s proactive efforts to facilitate this accessibility.
• Reflecting Indian heritage: The building showcases the vibrance and diversity of modern India by incorporating cultural and regional arts and crafts, serving as an embodiment of Indian heritage. Eg, Lok Sabha Hall is based on the peacock theme, India’s national bird. The Rajya Sabha is based on the lotus theme, India’s national flower.

How does it reflect changing political governance dynamics in the country?

• Sufficient seating space: The new building has been designed to accommodate a bicameral legislature for a full-fledged democracy. With the likely rise in Lok Sabha seats post delimitation after 2026 there was a need for new space to accommodate new MPs, which also helped in organising joint sessions comfortably. This underscores the flexibility and adaptability of the country’s democratic institutions.
• Technological advancements: The new building offers secure and efficient office spaces equipped with the latest communication technology. It features large committee rooms with advanced audio-visual equipment and provides an enhanced library experience. It incorporates state-of-the-art facilities, advanced communication systems, and electronic surveillance for improved functionality and efficiency.
• Enhanced legislative proceedings: The new building provides well-engineered acoustics, a digitized voting system, and modern audio-visual systems to facilitate effective legislative proceedings. It ensures a more conducive environment for debates, discussions, and decision-making on matters of national importance.

Conclusion:

The new building, which stands alongside the existing Parliament House, “reflects the aspirations of 135 crore Indians”. The old and new Parliament buildings “will work together as an ensemble” to “facilitate smooth and efficient functioning of operations” by adapting to the needs of a growing and evolving nation while upholding its democratic ethos.