India has a parliamentary system of governance. The Union Parliament is the main legislative body of the nation. The two houses that make up the bicameral Indian Parliament are the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha (House of the People) is directly elected by the populace through the voting process. The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) members are chosen by the state legislative assemblies. The Parliament of India is composed of the two Houses and the President.
In Chapter II of Part V of the Indian Constitution, the functions of the Parliament are discussed. There are various categories under which the Parliament's duties can be grouped.
1. Legislative functions
2. Executive Functions
3. Financial Functions
4. Amending Powers
5. Electoral Functions
6. Judicial Functions
Reasons why a new parliament building is needed
1. Historical reasons
The structure was built between 1921 and 1927 and was designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. The Imperial Legislative Council first met there in January 1927. The Constituent Assembly of India took over after British control in India ended, and the Indian Parliament then took over after the constitution of India took effect on January 26, 1950, and India became a republic. In 1927, the structure was built as "Council House," not to hold a bicameral legislature.
2. Political reasons
a) A bicameral legislature for a fully-fledged democracy cannot be accommodated in the present Parliament House. Only 440 people can fit in the Central Hall, which poses a serious problem during Joint Sessions. A security risk is created by insufficient room for mobility. While the Lok Sabha can accommodate 552 MPs and the Central Hall 436, joint sittings may add 200 temporary aisle seats, increasing security issues.The previous structure could accommodate 250 Rajya Sabha members and 543 Lok Sabha members. There will be space in the new Parliament building for 384 Rajya Sabha members and 888 Lok Sabha members.
b) One of the main political justifications for new construction is to raise the number of MP seats in accordance with the country's growing population.
3.Modern Infrastructure
a) Inadequate office space, out-of-date infrastructure, and insufficient sitting capacity are all addressed in the new Parliament building. Modern infrastructure, cutting-edge communications, and electronic surveillance are all included for increased functionality and effectiveness.
b) Safety and security: To ensure the welfare of MPs and personnel, the new building addresses safety concerns, particularly those pertaining to earthquake safety and fire safety. It integrates contemporary infrastructure and safety features to reduce dangers and offer a secure setting for parliamentary proceedings.
4. National pride and symbolism
The construction of the new Parliament building is viewed as a matter of national pride and a sign of India's development in the twenty-first century. It represents India's tenacity, resiliency, and dedication to democratic principles and effective government.
The theme of Interiors-a)Lok Sabha -Peacock (National bird)
b)Rajya Sabha- Lotus (National flower)
c)Central Lounge-Banyan (National Tree)
What are critics’ arguments against the construction of the New Parliament building?
1. Cost and allocation of resources: Critics raise concerns about the substantial cost associated with constructing the new Parliament building, including expenses for interior decoration and artwork. They argue that these funds could have been utilized for more pressing needs, such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure development.
2. Lack of public consultation: The opposition expresses discontent over the lack of public consultation or involvement in the decision-making process regarding the construction of the new Parliament building. They argue that such a significant project should have involved broader discussions and considerations of public opinion.
What are the advantages associated with the development process of the New Parliament building?
1. Economic Boost: By supporting the construction industry, the creation of the new Parliament contributes to economic growth. It improved the regional and national economies.
2. Job Creation: The new Parliament building's construction and subsequent operation led to the creation of jobs in a variety of industries. It creates a wide variety of occupations that support livelihoods and economic stability, from maintenance workers, administrative employees, and security personnel to architects, engineers, and construction workers.
3. Tourism and Cultural Impact: The new Parliament building is both an Indian cultural landmark and a popular tourist destination. Its layout, artwork, and incorporation of local handicrafts draw tourists from both domestic and foreign countries, boosting tourism and fostering cross-cultural understanding. This in turn produces income and aids regional hospitality and tourism enterprises.
The above-mentioned factors have led to the conclusion that building a new, specifically constructed parliament building in India won't be necessary if the infrastructure of the existing parliament house is to be updated, its capacity is to be increased, and its earthquake safety is to be ensured.
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