Prime Minister Narendra Modi began Day 1 of the special session of Parliament on September 18 with his address in the Lok Sabha. In his speech, the PM acknowledged the significant contributions of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Manmohan Singh, recognising their efforts in shaping Parliament and upholding the country's democracy.
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“From Jawaharlal Nehru to Lal Bahadur Shastri to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, this Parliament has seen several leaders presenting their vision of India,” said Modi.
The Prime Minister said more than 7,500 members have so far contributed to both Houses; about 600 women MPs have enhanced the dignity of both Houses.
Modi said Nehru's ‘At the stroke of Midnight Hour’ poem will always echo inside the premises of the old Parliament building. “And this is that very Parliament where Atal Ji said sarkaren ayyengi, jayengi; partiyan banegi, bigedgi; magar ye desh rahna chahiye,” the PM said.
Old building will always inspire future generations: PM
He said this “august house” has seen active contribution from members aged 25 to 93. The PM praised Jawaharlal Nehru, as well as Indira Gandhi for making tough decisions during their tenure as Prime Minister at this building. “This Parliament will remember Indira Gandhi's decision on Pakistan's partition and formation of Bangladesh," PM Modi said. He recollected Lal Bahadur Shastri's contribution during the Indo-Pak war and the Green Revolution.
“From the cash-for-votes scandal during the tenure of former PM Manmohan Singh to the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, this Parliament has witnessed it all,” said Modi.
Modi also remembered how by just one vote the Atal Vajpayee's government fell in the old building.
Many tears have been shed in this Parliament. Nehru, Shastri and Indira Gandhi lost their lives during their tenure. We bid them adieu with tears in our eyes,” he said.
Modi said the members of the Parliament are like family members. “MPs have always fulfilled their responsibilities despite health issues. Some came in wheelchairs, some attended the proceeding after surgery...Even during the pandemic, MPs continued working for the country," he said.
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