Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has labeled the new Parliament building a 'soulless conference centre,' claiming its design mirrors the growing political polarization in India.
- Shashi Tharoor described the new Parliament as lacking intimacy and soul.
- He argued the architectural layout reflects the current political polarization.
- Tharoor warned that expanding the Lok Sabha to 850 members could stifle meaningful debate.
Senior Congress leader and four-time Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor has launched a scathing critique of the new Parliament building, describing it as a 'soulless conference centre.' Speaking at the launch of Sobhana K. Nair's book, 'Housing the Republic,' Tharoor argued that the new structure lacks the warmth and intimacy essential for parliamentary discourse.
According to Tharoor, the building's design—characterized by exceptionally high ceilings and a 'fan-like' layout—destroys any possibility of the cozy, conversational atmosphere that once defined the old Parliament chambers. He noted that the old halls encouraged spontaneous exchanges and camaraderie among members.
A Metaphor for Polarization
In a profound observation, the MP suggested that the physical distancing inherent in the new building's layout serves as a metaphor for the deepening polarization of Indian politics. He believes the architecture inadvertently promotes a sense of separation rather than cohesion.
The new Parliament really does come across as a kind of soulless conference centre, lacking the intimacy that encouraged conversation.
BozokMedia analysis shows that Tharoor's criticism extends beyond aesthetics to the very functional essence of democracy. He highlighted the absence of a 'Central Hall,' a space that historically facilitated informal interactions between current MPs, former lawmakers, and the media, thereby fostering a sense of parliamentary community.
Warning Against Lok Sabha Expansion
Tharoor also voiced strong opposition to the proposed expansion of the Lok Sabha to 850 members. While acknowledging that the new building has the physical capacity to house more members, he warned that such a move would dilute the spirit of deliberation. He cautioned that an oversized house could transform MPs into a mere 'bunch of strangers' who perform ritualistic applause rather than engaging in substantive debate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did Shashi Tharoor call the new building 'soulless'?
He believes the high ceilings and modern layout prevent the informal, intimate interactions that were vital in the old Parliament.
2. What is Tharoor's concern regarding the Lok Sabha expansion?
He fears that increasing the number of seats to 850 will reduce the quality of parliamentary debate and turn members into mere spectators.
