New Parliament Building Transformed into Modi Marriot, Hindering Democratic Conversations, Congress Leader Claims
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has unleashed a scathing attack on the Modi government, alleging that the new Parliament building has been turned into a cramped and claustrophobic space that hinders democratic conversations among politicians. Just days after the operationalization of the new building, Ramesh took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his disapproval.
Ramesh lamented the lack of confabulations and conversations inside both Houses of Parliament and in the lobbies. He criticized the compact and cozy design of the new halls, stating that it is now necessary to use binoculars to see each other. In sharp contrast, he recalled the old Parliament building, which not only possessed a certain aura but also facilitated conversations.
In his accusations against the government, Ramesh referred to the new Parliament building as the Modi Marriot/Modi Muliplex, insinuating a larger conspiracy behind its architecture. He argued that the previous building allowed for smooth and easy movement between the Houses, the Central Hall, and the corridors, thus fostering the necessary bonding for the successful functioning of Parliament. However, the new structure has made quick coordination between the two Houses exceedingly cumbersome.
According to Ramesh, the new building lacks the sense of space and openness that defined the old complex, and he found it to be almost claustrophobic. He bemoaned the disappearance of the sheer joy of simply hanging out in Parliament, reminiscing about his anticipation of going to the old building. Ramesh blamed the absence of consultations with the building’s future users as the reason for these grievances.
Ramesh was not alone in criticizing the new Parliament building. Party MP Pramod Tiwari joined in with further bizarre claims. He argued that fully air-conditioning the Parliament house in a country like India is unscientific and impractical. Tiwari remembered the lobby and central hall of the old Parliament and alleged that the air circulation in the new building was flawed, leading to MPs falling ill. He also pointed out discomfort in the seating arrangement, claiming that it affected back support.
Tiwari further accused the Modi government of transforming the building into a 7-star hotel, asserting that the openness of the previous Parliament was more scientific, practical, and beneficial for health. He alleged that he knew about 50 MPs who fell ill due to the air conditioning in the new building.
With these criticisms from Congress leaders, concerns have been raised about the design and functionality of the recently constructed Parliament building. It is yet to be seen how the Modi government will respond to and address these allegations, which may impact the atmosphere and processes within the Indian Parliament.
