New Delhi: In a momentous occasion, the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, the lower and upper houses of the Indian Parliament, will convene their first session in the newly inaugurated Parliament building today. The new building was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 28, 2023, and will now serve as the permanent legislative home for India's lawmakers.
Yesterday marked a poignant farewell as lawmakers gathered for the final session in the old Parliament building, sharing cherished memories and bidding adieu to the historic location that had served as the seat of Indian democracy for decades.
The decision to hold a Special Session on this particular day was made by the Central government, with Prime Minister Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) selecting September 19 as the symbolic date for Parliament proceedings in the new edifice. Ganesh Chaturthi, dedicated to the elephant-headed deity Lord Ganesha, is considered highly auspicious for new beginnings.
New Dress Code for Parliament Staff
In addition to the significant change in venue, a new dress code has been introduced for Parliament staff. A circular issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat mandates that marshals, security personnel, officials, chamber attendants, and drivers will now don uniforms featuring a floral motif, effective from today.
Bureaucrats' traditional 'bandhgala' suits will be replaced with magenta or deep pink Nehru jackets, paired with shirts adorned with floral designs. Khaki-colored pants will complete the ensemble. The attire for marshals in both houses will now include Manipuri turbans, while the Parliament Security Staff will be attired in army camouflage pattern fatigues, replacing the previous blue safari suits. Female officers have been assigned bright-colored sarees with jackets for the winter months.
Notable Speakers in the Joint Sitting
The joint sitting of Parliament, scheduled for this afternoon in the new Parliament building, will feature prominent speakers. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is expected to address the assembly for five minutes, as reported by the ANI news agency. Joining him are BJP MP Maneka Gandhi and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leader Shibu Soren, who will also deliver brief speeches.
Central Hall Function to Commemorate Parliamentary Legacy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, will lead a special function in the Central Hall of Parliament today. The hour-and-a-half-long ceremony will commence and conclude with the national anthem and will culminate with the country's top leaders guiding all Members of Parliament to the new Parliament building, symbolizing the transition to this modern legislative hub.
Tomorrow's joint sitting of Parliament in the new building is expected to witness speeches by Maneka Gandhi, Shibu Soren, and Manmohan Singh, each reflecting on their extensive parliamentary careers and the historical significance of the occasion.
The inauguration of the new Parliament building represents a moment of great historical import, marking a new chapter in India's democratic journey and showcasing the country's commitment to progress and change while preserving its rich heritage.
