Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and several opposition parties have expressed their discontent over the inauguration of the new Parliament building in India. Gandhi criticized the decision to exclude President Droupadi Murmu from the inauguration, stating that it was an insult to the country’s highest constitutional post.
A total of 19 opposition parties have united in their decision to boycott the event, citing the erosion of democracy within the Parliament. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal explained that the Congress party had discussed the matter with like-minded parties and expressed satisfaction in the collective effort to challenge the current state of affairs.
In a joint statement, the opposition parties expressed their willingness to set aside their differences and participate in the occasion, despite their concerns regarding the government’s alleged threats to democracy and the autocratic manner in which the new Parliament building was constructed. However, they were disappointed by Prime Minister Modi’s decision to exclusively inaugurate the building, disregarding the role of President Murmu. They viewed this as a severe insult and a direct assault on the democratic principles that guide their actions.
The statement further highlighted the significance of the President’s role within the Parliament, emphasizing that the President is not only the Head of State but also an integral part of the legislative body. As per Article 79 of the Indian Constitution, the President summons, prorogues, and addresses the Parliament, and their assent is required for an Act of Parliament to become effective.
The opposition parties firmly believe that the Parliament represents the soul of democracy, and its new building holds little value in the absence of democratic ideals. With their collective decision to boycott the inauguration, they aim to send a strong message against the perceived threats to democracy and to uphold the constitutional values that the Parliament is meant to embody.