In an address that marked the commencement of a special parliamentary session and the transition to a new parliamentary building, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the “historic decisions” undertaken during his tenure. Among these, he highlighted the contentious actions related to Article 370, the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and the ‘One Rank-One Pension’ bills.
During his extensive speech, the Prime Minister took subtle swipes at the opposition, even referencing the ‘cash for votes’ scandal that occurred during the Manmohan Singh administration. Amid these remarks, he also reminisced about the old building, including the tragic 2001 terror attack on the parliamentary complex.
“The House will always say proudly that (the abrogation of) Article 370 became possible due to it… GST was also passed here… ‘One Rank-One Pension’ was witnessed (and) 10 per cent reservation for Economically Weaker Sections was successfully allowed for the first time without dispute,” he declared.
As the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party members enthusiastically thumped their desks in agreement, the Prime Minister continued, “Bidding goodbye to this building is an emotional moment…many bitter-sweet memories associated with it. We had differences and disputes but we witnessed ‘parivaar bhaav’ (‘feeling of family’).”
He further noted, “There was a terror attack (on Parliament). This was not an attack on a building…. in a way, it was an attack on the ‘Mother of Democracy’… on our living soul. The country can never forget that incident,” paying tribute to the security personnel who lost their lives during the attack.
While referring to India as the ‘Mother of Democracy,’ a phrase that had garnered attention during the recent G20 summit, the Prime Minister acknowledged the historical roots of democracy in ancient Greece. Nevertheless, he emphasized the significance of India’s democratic journey.
Sharing his personal connection with the old Parliament building, Prime Minister Modi stated, “When I first entered… as an MP… I bowed down and honored the ‘Temple of Democracy.’ It was an emotional moment… I could have never imagined a child from a poor family, living on the railway platform, would ever be able to enter Parliament. I never imagined I would get so much love…”
He concluded his address by praising India’s achievements, including the Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission and the success of the recent G20 Summit. He attributed this success to the unity of the nation’s citizens.
“Today… you have unanimously appreciated the success of G20. I express my gratitude to you. The success of G20 is that of 140 crore citizens of the country. It is India’s success (and) not that of an individual or a party,” the Prime Minister affirmed.
He also highlighted India’s pivotal role in the negotiation of the Delhi Declaration during the G20 summit, underscoring the country’s strength and standing in the world.
The Delhi Declaration, which was deemed nearly impossible due to the complexities arising from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, was ultimately achieved, thanks in large part to India’s efforts.
In this special parliamentary session, Prime Minister Modi evoked both nostalgia and the nation’s contemporary achievements, signifying a significant moment in India’s political history.
