PM Narendra Modi inaugurates new Chhattisgarh assembly, calls it ‘pilgrimage site of democracy’ | Raipur News

RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Chhattisgarh’s new Assembly building in Nava Raipur, describing it as a “pilgrimage site of democracy” and a milestone in the state’s 25-year journey from aspiration to achievement. Paying tribute to national and regional icons, including Bharat Ratna former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, PM Modi said the modern, culturally inspired complex symbolises transparency, accountability, and progress. He highlighted Chhattisgarh’s transformation from a Naxal-affected region to a model of development and urged legislators to make the new Assembly a centre of people-centric governance that empowers farmers, youth, women, and the marginalised—shaping a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. On the historic occasion of inaugurating the grand and modern Assembly building on Saturday, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the eminent leaders from the region who played a crucial role in the formation of the Indian Constitution under Baba Saheb Ambedkar’s leadership. He recalled figures like Ravishankar Shukla, Barrister Thakur Chedilal, Ghanshyam Singh Gupta, Kishori Mohan Tripathi, Ramprasad Potai, and Raghuraj Singh, who rose from an underdeveloped region to shape the nation’s destiny. PM Modi stated that today’s event is not just about inaugurating a building but celebrating 25 years of people’s aspirations, struggles, and pride. Chhattisgarh stands at a new peak of its dreams, a testimony to the vision and compassion of those who established the state, notably Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Prime Minister recalled Atal Ji’s decision in 2000 to form the state, a move that was more than administrative—it was a path to development and recognizing the state’s soul. Along with the Assembly inauguration, unveiling Atal Ji’s statue symbolizes the realization of his dream as Chhattisgarh now strides confidently toward new heights of progress. The first Assembly meeting in 2000 took place in a modest setting at Rajkumar College in Raipur, but today the state witnesses the inauguration of a digitally advanced, self-reliant legislative building. This building is described as a pilgrimage site of democracy, where every pillar stands for transparency, corridors remind of accountability, and rooms reflect the voice of the people. Decisions made here will guide Chhattisgarh’s destiny for decades, with each word echoing the state’s past, present, and future. PM Modi emphasised that the new Assembly complex reflects the rich culture of Chhattisgarh and is inspired by the region’s heroes and their ideals. The building’s walls carry messages from Baba Guru Ghasidas on equality, lessons from Mother Shabari on hospitality, teachings from Sant Kabir on truth and courage, and the service motto of Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya.Recognizing India as the mother of democracy, the Prime Minister also highlighted the tribal society’s long democratic traditions, like the Muria Darbar in Bastar, which continues its influence in the Assembly’s functioning. He lauded former Chief Minister Raman Singh for his dedicated leadership, noting how he transitioned from a leader to an inspiring grassroots worker. Recalling poet Nirala’s call for a new India, PM Modi underscored the Assembly as a symbol of new energy and dreams combined with past wisdom—a foundation for a new India and Chhattisgarh rooted in heritage and development. The mantra “Nagarik Devo Bhava” (citizen is god) guides good governance, with laws aimed at reform, simplifying lives, and minimizing unnecessary government interference. The Prime Minister described Chhattisgarh as the maternal home of Lord Ram, a symbol of good governance and welfare. He recalled the Ram temple’s consecration in Ayodhya and its significance for governance based on justice, prosperity, and social harmony. PM Modi spoke against poverty and disease, urging a vision of a healthy and just India. He praised India’s fight against terrorism and Maoist insurgency, noting the unprecedented victories that inspire pride felt throughout the new Assembly complex. He reflected on Chhattisgarh’s remarkable 25-year transformation from a state once known for naxalism and backwardness to a symbol of prosperity, security, and stability. The development wave reaching even Naxal-affected areas is credited to the hard work of Chhattisgarh’s people and visionary BJP leadership. Looking ahead to 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence, PM Modi urged lawmakers and representatives to build a model Assembly that inspires all states towards development. Decisions in this Assembly must respect farmers’ labor, guide youth aspirations, empower women, uplift marginalized sections, and be rooted in public service and progress. He concluded by inviting everyone to commit to their duties in public life and pledge that the new Assembly building is a beacon of that commitment—a center for policies and decisions that will elevate Chhattisgarh and India to new heights. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Speaker Dr Raman Singh addressed the occasion. Dr Singh stated that Chhattisgarh’s new Legislative Assembly building in Nava Raipur stands as a magnificent symbol of the state’s democratic journey, progress, and cultural identity. Built on approximately 51 acres at an estimated cost of Rs 324.93 crore, the complex represents a forward-looking vision that combines architectural innovation, sustainability, and deep respect for Chhattisgarh’s traditions. Spanning over 57,800 square metres (around 6.22 lakh sq ft), the new Assembly has been designed with a 100-year perspective, integrating advanced technology, environmental balance, and scalability. The main Assembly Hall can currently accommodate 90 legislators, with the capacity to expand to 200 in anticipation of future delimitation. Officials describe the building as not just a legislative structure, but a living embodiment of Chhattisgarh’s 25-year democratic evolution, he said. Drawing inspiration from the state’s identity as the “Rice Bowl of India,” the design reflects agrarian symbolism through the “Dhaan ka Katora” (Rice Bowl) motif. The ceiling of the main Assembly Hall features artistic rice stalks and leaves, celebrating Chhattisgarh’s agricultural heritage, Dr Singh said.