Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda expressed his immense joy at attending the inauguration of the new Parliament building in New Delhi, describing it as a moment of great significance in India’s democratic history. The 91-year-old leader expressed his gratitude, stating that he never anticipated the opportunity to witness the inauguration of a new Parliament building during his lifetime.
Mr. Gowda, in a statement, reflected on his political journey, beginning with his entry into the Karnataka legislative Assembly in 1962 and subsequently becoming a Member of Parliament in 1991. He acknowledged that when he first entered the Parliament 32 years ago, he never imagined that he would eventually serve as the Prime Minister, nor did he expect to remain active in public life for such a prolonged period.
Furthermore, Mr. Gowda emphasized the extraordinary nature of the occasion, comparing it to the auspiciousness of entering a new home in Indian tradition. He expressed his delight at being able to sit in a new Parliament building at the age of 91, considering it a momentous milestone.
Recalling the historical context, Mr. Gowda noted that the inauguration of the old Parliament House took place during the era of colonial rule when India’s independence seemed distant. He paid tribute to the numerous national figures who contributed to the country’s peaceful and non-violent journey toward freedom, remarking that India’s peaceful path to nationhood is a priceless accomplishment that should be preserved and passed on to future generations.
Highlighting the role of Parliament, Mr. Gowda acknowledged its significance as a platform that has embraced the diversity of India. He stated that Parliament has nurtured and accommodated all castes, ethnicities, religions, languages, and regions, as well as a wide range of opinions, ideas, and ideologies. He emphasized the importance of preserving India’s vast diversity within the new home of democracy, considering it a paramount objective.
Mr. Gowda commended the Indian people for their watchfulness and wisdom, noting that they have historically removed those who disrupted the equilibrium of the nation from the Parliament. He expressed his gratitude and saluted the people of India on the occasion of the new Parliament building’s inauguration. He concluded by expressing his sincere hope for the continued flourishing of India’s rich democratic tradition, which would contribute to the country’s enduring shine.
Former Prime Minister Deve Gowda’s presence at the inauguration added to the significance of the event, with his reflections serving as a reminder of the democratic journey India has undertaken and the responsibilities of preserving and nurturing the nation’s diversity and values within the new Parliament building.
