PM dedicates new Parliament building to nation; ‘Shengol installed’, unveils plaque

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the new Parliament building to the nation. The Sengol, considered a symbol to mark the transfer of power from the British to Indians, was installed besides the chair of the Speaker. Modi then inaugurated the building by lighting the lamp and also unveiled a commemorative plaque for the new building.

The Prime Minister attended the pujas held prior to this. Modi reached the new Parliament building at 7:30 am. Prime Minister offered floral tributes to Gandhi's statue. He was received by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

The puja ceremonies were held in a specially decorated pandal near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. A multi-faith prayer meet by representatives from several religions were held.

The priests of Tamil Nadu Shaiva Muts, Vummidi Bankaru Jewelers who made the Sengol and those involved in building the temple will be honored. The Prime Minister will visit both the Houses.

The second phase of the programmes will begin at noon with national anthem. Two short films will be screened first. Rajya Sabha Deputy Speaker Harivansh Narayan Singh will welcome the gathering. Messages from the President and Vice President will also be read. Speaker Om Birla will release the Rs 75 coin and stamp. The programme will conclude with the speech of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 2.30 pm.

Heavy security has been deployed in Delhi as the Prime Minister dedicates the new building to the nation today. Traffic control started from half past five in the morning. Central Army and Delhi Police are in charge of law and order. It is also reported that security deployment will be increased within Delhi borders as wrestlers and farmers' organizations in solidarity with them have announced a protest in front of the new Parliament building.