The new Parliament building, where India’s lawmakers will convene starting tomorrow, comes equipped with several noteworthy features, according to sources.
One such feature is an “automated system” designed to switch off a Member of Parliament’s microphone at the end of their allotted speaking time. This system aims to address concerns about opposition leaders being silenced by shutting off their microphones during sessions.
Additionally, the new Parliament will be a “paperless” environment, with each MP receiving a tablet computer.
The building incorporates advanced security measures, including a biometric security system, to ensure the safety of its occupants. To minimize disruptions caused by protests, a smaller well has been included in the design.
The building also features six gates, named after both real and mythological creatures, such as the elephant and Garuda, Vishnu’s eagle mount.
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The move to implement the “automated system” follows allegations that the government has prevented opposition leaders from speaking in Parliament by cutting off their microphones.
These claims were raised during the previous session of Parliament when the opposition demanded a parliamentary inquiry into alleged financial misconduct by the Adani Group, as detailed in the Hindenburg report.
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, also the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, accused the government of “insulting” him by muting his microphone. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) denied the allegation, attributing the issue to a “technical fault.”
A video posted by Congress showed microphones being inactive for nearly 20 minutes until Speaker Om Birla called for order and decorum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a five-day special session of Parliament with a 51-minute speech that touched on various topics, including jabs at the opposition, praise for his government, and references to international events like the G20 summit and the Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission. He also reminisced about the “bitter-sweet memories” associated with the old Parliament building, including the 2001 terror attack.
Parliament is scheduled to shift to the new building following the lunch break on Tuesday. Despite initial concerns about a potentially explosive first day, it appears unlikely as the bill amending the terms of appointment for the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners has been temporarily withdrawn.
