Senior Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Shashi Tharoor has voiced strong dissatisfaction with the architectural design and structure of India’s new Parliament building, describing it as a “lifeless conference center” that lacks the intimacy and warmth of the historic old building.
Criticism of Design and Intimacy
Speaking at the launch of journalist and author Shobhana K. Nair’s book “Housing the Republic: A Biography of the Indian Parliament,” the four-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram compared the old and new legislative complexes. Tharoor argued that the high ceilings, massive scale, and modern seating arrangements in the new building destroy the sense of belonging and camaraderie among parliamentarians.
“The new Parliament building feels like a lifeless conference center. Its high ceilings destroy any sense of intimacy. The old House had a sense of belonging. It encouraged conversation,” Tharoor remarked, adding that the seating arrangement appears to reflect the growing political polarization in contemporary Indian politics.
Absence of the Historic Central Hall
A major point of objection raised by the Congress leader was the complete lack of a Central Hall in the new structure. He recalled that the Central Hall of the old Parliament building served as a vibrant and informal meeting ground where current MPs, former lawmakers, journalists, and dignitaries could freely interact, fostering cross-party friendships and informal dialogue—an opportunity he believes is largely diminished in the new facility.
Concerns Over Lok Sabha Expansion and Seating
Addressing the proposal to expand the Lok Sabha’s capacity to accommodate up to 850 MPs in the future, Tharoor expressed apprehension that such a massive legislative body could undermine meaningful parliamentary debates and discussions. He cautioned that in a House of that scale, lawmakers risk becoming strangers to one another, potentially reducing legislative proceedings to mere applause.
A Rare Point of Praise
Despite his extensive criticism, Tharoor did acknowledge one structural improvement. He noted that unlike the old building—where MPs frequently had to squeeze past one another in tight rows to reach their assigned seats—the new complex offers significantly improved spatial accessibility and modern amenities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new four-story Parliament building opposite the heritage structure in 2023equipped with state-of-the-art technological infrastructure designed to accommodate future increases in parliamentary representation.