The Naveen Patnaik-led party Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has accepted the invitation to take part in the opening of the new parliament building slated to be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on May 28.
The conch party released a statement this evening, stating that both the president of India and the Parliament are symbols of Indian democracy and draw their authority from the Constitution of India. “They should be above any issue which may affect their sanctity and honour,” it said.
The statement released by BJD national spokesperson Dr. Sasmit Patra further added that such issues can later be debated upon in the Parliament, while declaring that Odisha’s ruling party will be a part of this “momentous occasion”.
Biju Janata Dal to take part in the inauguration of the new Parliament building on May 28. pic.twitter.com/0Ww9AWFDXU
— ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2023
BJD’s declaration comes amid the ongoing debate, wherein 19 opposition parties have already announced boycotting the inauguration of the new Parliament building.
The opposition is abstaining from the ceremony, arguing that the institution should be inaugurated by the President of India Droupadi Murmu and the PM Modi’s decision to do this is a clear indication at “sidelining” her.
The New Parliament building is to be inaugurated on, May 28 by PM Narendra Modi (Photo-Centralvista.gov.in)
Apart from the BJD, parties such as Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), YSRCP and Telugu Desam Party are scheduled to attend the opening of the new Parliament building.
