The Prime Minister also discussed the creation of Bangladesh, the “seeds of bitterness sown” following the creation of Telangana, and the success of the G20 Summit while speaking in Lok Sabha. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, praised Jawaharlal Nehru and said that “the echo” of his “Tryst with Destiny” speech “will continue to inspire” the nation. Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 1996 address was also cited by Modi when he began the Lok Sabha debate on the old Parliament building’s 75 years:
“Sarkare aayengi, jaayengi, partiyan banengi, bigdengi; magar ye desh rehna chahiye (governments will come and go, so will parties, but this country must remain intact).” Modi spoke extensively about the history of the former Parliament building and asserted that the iconic landmark will continue to serve as an inspiration to succeeding generations. “There have been sweet and sour experiences, there has also been an atmosphere of bickering, and sometimes an atmosphere of conflict and sometimes, an atmosphere of joy. All these memories are our shared memories… our shared heritage and hence, its glory also belongs to all of us,” stated Modi, who talked for over an hour.
“From Rajendra Prasad to Ram Nath Kovind to Droupadi Murmu, this Parliament received their guidance. This Parliament also witnessed the time of Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh who gave direction to this country.” In his speech, Modi also made mention of the participation and value of female lawmakers, stating that “about 600 women MPs have enhanced the dignity of both Houses” of Parliament since Independence.
Modi referred to the current session as a chance to honour those who had contributed to the historic trip taken by the House of Representatives. He also emphasised the “unprecedented” success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission and India’s management of the G20 presidency. “Credit for the success of the G20 (leaders’ summit) goes to 140 crore Indians. It is the success of Bharat. It is not a success of an individual or a political party,” he said. The Prime Minister added, “Many people have a tendency to be suspicious about India, and this has continued since Independence; this time too, they were confident that there would be no (G20) declaration. However, it was because of India’s strength that it happened.”
