Asaduddin Owaisi says Speaker should inaugurate New Parliament, not the PM or Prez
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Hyderabad: Asaduddin Owaisi, the President of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), has raised objections to Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the New Parliament Building and demanded that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla be given the honour instead. Owaisi argued that denying the Speaker's involvement in the inauguration goes against the principle of separation of powers.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Owaisi emphasized that the Theory of Separation, which advocates the independence of the executive, legislature, and judiciary, necessitates that each branch performs distinct functions as separate entities.
"Parliament, as the legislature, is independent of the executive, led by the Prime Minister, and the judiciary, led by the Chief Justice of India. Hence, we oppose Prime Minister Modi's decision to inaugurate the New Parliament Building," Owaisi stated.
Citing the recent resolution adopted by 19 opposition parties to boycott the inaugural ceremony, Owaisi expressed disappointment in his party not being consulted regarding the matter. He further discredited the suggestion that President Murmu should inaugurate the building based on Article 52 (1) of the Constitution.
"According to Article 52 (1), the President of India is also part of the executive. Therefore, their claim that President Murmu should inaugurate the building is invalid," Owaisi added.
In a veiled jab at Prime Minister Modi, Owaisi appealed to him, saying, "Your name will be inscribed on the foundation stone, but we request you to step back and allow the Lok Sabha Speaker to inaugurate the New Parliament Building."
The controversy surrounding the inauguration of the New Parliament Building has sparked a debate over the separation of powers and the appropriate protocol for such occasions. The opposition parties' resolution to boycott the ceremony, along with Owaisi's objections, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. The response from the government and other stakeholders is awaited as the inauguration date approaches.