Sansad Bhavan

Sansad Bhavan

Sansad Bhavan (Hindi: संसद भवन, literally "Parliament House") is the iconic circular building in New Delhi, India, that houses the Parliament of India. It stands as a testament to India's democratic ideals and architectural prowess. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Sansad Bhavan, covering its history, architecture, construction, significance, security, and recent developments. It aims to be a beginner-friendly resource for understanding this vital national landmark.

History and Background

The genesis of Sansad Bhavan dates back to the early 20th century, during British rule in India. As the capital was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911, the need for a dedicated Parliament building arose. Sir Edwin Lutyens, a prominent British architect known for his contribution to New Delhi's architectural landscape, was commissioned to design the building. Lutyens, alongside Herbert Baker, had already begun planning New Delhi as a grand imperial capital.

However, the initial plans were significantly altered due to various factors, including budgetary constraints and evolving political considerations. The original concept envisioned a more expansive and ornate structure. The final design, while still impressive, was a scaled-down version of Lutyens' initial vision. The foundation stone was laid on February 19, 1927, by Prince George, Duke of Kent.

The construction process wasn't without its challenges. The building was built using a unique blend of Indian and British architectural styles, requiring skilled artisans and meticulous planning. The Second World War caused delays, and the building was eventually completed in 1960, thirteen years after India gained independence. It was inaugurated on May 26, 1960, by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, marking a significant moment in India's parliamentary history.

The building originally housed the Parliament of India, comprising the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). Over the years, the need for additional space has become increasingly apparent, leading to discussions and plans for a new Parliament building (discussed later). The existing Sansad Bhavan remains a powerful symbol of Indian democracy and continues to be at the heart of the nation's legislative processes.

Architectural Design and Features

Sansad Bhavan is a remarkable example of circular architecture, a design choice that Lutyens believed fostered a sense of equality and inclusivity among the members of Parliament. The building’s diameter is approximately 144 meters (472 feet), and it circumscribes a large, open courtyard. The circular design is not merely aesthetic; it symbolizes the continuous and ongoing nature of democratic processes.

The building is constructed primarily of red sandstone, quarried from Rajasthan, a material that provides both durability and a distinctive visual appeal. The sandstone is complemented by white marble, used for ornamentation and detailing. The architectural style is a blend of Indian and British elements, incorporating motifs and designs inspired by ancient Indian art and architecture.

Several key features define Sansad Bhavan's architectural grandeur:

**The Three Chambers:** The building houses three main chambers: the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha, and the Central Hall.

   *   **Lok Sabha (House of the People):**  Designed to accommodate 545 members, the Lok Sabha chamber is equipped with modern audio-visual facilities and seating arrangements.  It follows a horseshoe shape.
   *   **Rajya Sabha (Council of States):**  The Rajya Sabha chamber, designed for 250 members, also features a horseshoe shape and is equipped with similar facilities as the Lok Sabha.
   *   **Central Hall:**  This is the most prominent space within Sansad Bhavan. It's a large, octagonal hall covered by a dome and used for joint sessions of Parliament, important national events, and gatherings. The walls of the Central Hall are adorned with murals depicting significant historical events and figures from India's past.

**The Dome:** The majestic dome of Sansad Bhavan is a defining feature of the building's skyline. It is 30 meters (98 feet) in diameter and is constructed of steel and concrete, covered with copper.
**The Courtyard:** The large courtyard within the circular structure provides a serene and spacious area for members of Parliament and visitors. It is landscaped with gardens and lawns.
**The Library:** Sansad Bhavan houses a well-stocked library containing a vast collection of books, journals, and parliamentary documents, serving as a valuable resource for Members of Parliament. Parliamentary Library is a crucial institution.
**Committee Rooms:** Numerous committee rooms are available for parliamentary committees to conduct meetings and deliberations.
**Offices and Support Facilities:** The building also includes offices for ministers, secretaries, and other parliamentary staff, as well as support facilities such as cafeterias and restrooms.

The architectural design of Sansad Bhavan reflects a thoughtful balance between functionality and aesthetics, creating a space that is both conducive to legislative work and inspiring in its grandeur.

Construction and Materials

The construction of Sansad Bhavan was a complex undertaking, requiring careful planning, skilled labor, and a diverse range of materials. The primary building material, as mentioned earlier, is red sandstone sourced from Rajasthan. Over 16,000 tonnes of sandstone were used in the construction. The sandstone was meticulously carved and dressed to create the intricate facades and ornamentation of the building.

White marble, sourced from Makrana in Rajasthan (the same marble used in the Taj Mahal), was used for decorative elements, flooring, and statues. The use of high-quality marble added to the building’s elegance and grandeur.

Steel and concrete were used for the structural framework of the building, particularly for the dome and the supporting columns. The steel was sourced from Tata Steel, one of India's leading steel manufacturers. The concrete was specially formulated to withstand the harsh climatic conditions of Delhi.

Other materials used in the construction included:

**Copper:** Used for cladding the dome and for various decorative elements.
**Timber:** Used for doors, windows, and interior furnishings.
**Glass:** Used for windows and skylights.
**Cement:** A critical binding agent in concrete construction. Cement Industry in India
**Granite:** Used for paving and landscaping.

The construction process involved a large workforce, including skilled artisans, engineers, and laborers. The project was overseen by a team of British and Indian architects and engineers. The construction techniques employed were a blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship and modern engineering practices. The building was designed to be earthquake resistant, incorporating features to mitigate the impact of seismic activity. The foundations were laid deep into the ground to provide stability and prevent settling. The construction adhered to strict quality control standards to ensure the durability and longevity of the building.

Significance and Functions

Sansad Bhavan holds immense significance as the seat of India's parliamentary democracy. It is the place where laws are made, policies are debated, and the nation's future is shaped. The building symbolizes the sovereignty of the people and the principles of democratic governance. Indian Parliamentary System is rooted within these walls.

The primary function of Sansad Bhavan is to house the Parliament of India, which comprises the President, the Lok Sabha, and the Rajya Sabha. The Parliament is responsible for:

**Legislating Laws:** The Parliament enacts laws on subjects listed in the Union List and the Concurrent List.
**Controlling the Executive:** The Parliament exercises control over the executive branch of government through mechanisms such as questions, debates, and votes of no confidence.
**Budgetary Control:** The Parliament approves the annual budget presented by the government.
**Amendments to the Constitution:** The Parliament has the power to amend the Constitution of India.
**Representing the People:** The Lok Sabha, directly elected by the people, represents their interests and concerns. The Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories of India.

Beyond its legislative functions, Sansad Bhavan also serves as a venue for important national events and ceremonies. Joint sessions of Parliament are held in the Central Hall to commemorate significant occasions or to address the nation. The building also hosts meetings of parliamentary committees, conferences, and other official gatherings. Committees of Parliament play a vital role.

Sansad Bhavan is a focal point for political activity and public discourse. It attracts visitors from all over the world who come to witness the functioning of India's democracy. The building is a symbol of India's commitment to democratic values and its role as a leading global power.

Security and Access

Given its national importance, Sansad Bhavan is subject to stringent security measures. Security is managed by the Parliament Security Service (PSS), a dedicated force responsible for protecting the building and its occupants.

Security measures include:

**Perimeter Security:** A multi-layered perimeter security system is in place, including fencing, barricades, and security checkpoints.
**Access Control:** Access to Sansad Bhavan is strictly controlled. Visitors are required to obtain passes and undergo security screening. Members of Parliament and authorized personnel are issued identity cards for access.
**Surveillance Systems:** The building is equipped with a comprehensive surveillance system, including CCTV cameras and other electronic monitoring devices.
**Security Personnel:** Armed security personnel are deployed throughout the building and its surroundings.
**Bomb Detection and Disposal:** Specialized teams are responsible for detecting and disposing of explosive devices.
**Cyber Security:** Measures are in place to protect the building’s computer networks and data from cyber threats. Cybersecurity in India is a growing concern.
**Fire Safety:** The building is equipped with fire detection and suppression systems.

Access to the public is limited. Visitors must apply for passes in advance and are subject to security checks. The galleries of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are open to visitors during parliamentary sessions, but seating is limited and subject to availability. Photography and electronic devices are restricted in certain areas. Visitor Guidelines for Sansad Bhavan are readily available.

Recent security breaches have prompted reviews and enhancements to the security protocols at Sansad Bhavan. The security apparatus is continuously updated to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities.

Recent Developments and the New Parliament Building

The existing Sansad Bhavan has faced increasing constraints due to space limitations and the growing number of Members of Parliament. This led to the decision to construct a new Parliament building as part of the Central Vista redevelopment project. Central Vista Redevelopment Project is a controversial but significant undertaking.

The new Parliament building, located near the existing Sansad Bhavan, is being constructed by Shapoorji Pallonji Group. It is designed to be more spacious and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The new building will have a seating capacity of 888 members in the Lok Sabha and 300 in the Rajya Sabha, accommodating future expansion.

Key features of the new Parliament building include:

**Triangular Shape:** The new building is designed in a triangular shape, symbolizing stability and strength.
**Indigenous Art and Crafts:** The interior of the building will showcase Indian art, culture, and craftsmanship.
**Paperless Office:** The new building is designed to be a paperless office, promoting sustainability and efficiency.
**Advanced Technology:** The building will be equipped with advanced audio-visual systems, communication networks, and security features.
**Accessibility:** The building will be fully accessible to people with disabilities.

The new Parliament building is expected to be completed in 2024. The inauguration took place on May 28, 2023, by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. While the new building is intended to alleviate space constraints and modernize facilities, the decision to construct it has been met with criticism from some quarters, who argue that it is unnecessary and wasteful. The existing Sansad Bhavan is planned to be repurposed and converted into a museum, preserving its historical and architectural significance. Museum of Parliament is a proposed future use.

The shift to the new Parliament building marks a new chapter in India's parliamentary history. It reflects the nation's aspirations for a modern and efficient legislature. However, the historical and symbolic importance of the original Sansad Bhavan will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Start Trading Now

Sign up at IQ Option (Minimum deposit $10) Open an account at Pocket Option (Minimum deposit $5)

Join Our Community

Subscribe to our Telegram channel @strategybin to receive: ✓ Daily trading signals ✓ Exclusive strategy analysis ✓ Market trend alerts ✓ Educational materials for beginners