Governor of Chhattisgarh, Raman Deka ji, Lok Sabha Speaker, Om Birla ji, Speaker of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, my friend Raman Singh ji, Chief Minister of the state, Vishnu Deo Sai ji, my colleague in the Union Government, Tokhan Sahu ji, Deputy Chief Ministers, Vijay Sharma ji and Arun Sao ji, Leader of the Opposition in the State Assembly, Charan Das Mahant ji, other distinguished ministers, public representatives, and the ladies and gentlemen present here!

Today marks a golden beginning for Chhattisgarh’s journey of development. Personally, it is also a very special and joyful day for me. I have had a deep emotional bond with this land for several decades. As a worker, I spent a great deal of time in Chhattisgarh, and I learned so much from this place. The people and the soil of Chhattisgarh have greatly blessed and shaped my life. From the idea and conception of Chhattisgarh, to the resolve that led to its formation, and to the realization of that dream, I have been a witness to every stage of the state’s transformation. And today, as Chhattisgarh reaches a significant milestone in its 25-year journey, I have once again been honoured to be part of this historic moment. I am fortunate to inaugurate this new Legislative Assembly building for the people of the state to mark this Silver Jubilee celebration. I extend my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to the people of Chhattisgarh and to the state government on this auspicious occasion.

Friends,

The year 2025 also marks the Amrit Year of the Indian Republic. Seventy-five years ago, Bharat dedicated its Constitution to its citizens. On this historic occasion, I pay tribute from this region to the eminent members of the Constituent Assembly, Pandit Ravishankar Shukla ji, Barrister Thakur Chedilal ji, Ghanshyam Singh Gupta ji, Kishori Mohan Tripathi ji, Ramprasad Potai ji, and Raghuraj Singh ji. Coming from this largely underdeveloped region, these visionaries reached Delhi and played a crucial role in shaping our Constitution under the leadership of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.

Friends,

Today is a golden chapter in the history of Chhattisgarh. The inauguration of this grand and modern Assembly building is not merely the dedication of a structure, but it is a celebration of 25 years of people’s aspirations, struggles, and pride. Today, Chhattisgarh stands at a new pinnacle of its dreams. And at this proud moment, I bow to the great visionary whose foresight and compassion led to the creation of this state and this great statesman is Bharat Ratna, the revered Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji.

Friends,

When Atal ji created the state of Chhattisgarh in 2000, his decision was not merely an administrative one. That decision was a visionary step to open new paths of development and to give identity to the very soul of Chhattisgarh. That is why today, as the grand new Assembly building is inaugurated along with the unveiling of Atal ji’s statue, my heart is filled with emotion. I feel like saying: Atal ji, wherever you are, look your dream is coming true. The Chhattisgarh that you built is today brimming with confidence, reaching new heights of progress.

Friends,

The history of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly is an inspiration in itself. When this beautiful state was formed in 2000, the first Assembly session was held at the Jashpur Hall of Rajkumar College in Raipur. Those were days of limited resources, but unlimited dreams. The only sentiment at that time was that we will shape our destiny and make it shine faster. Later, the Assembly building that came up was also originally part of another department’s premises. From there began Chhattisgarh’s democratic journey, infused with new energy. And today, 25 years later, that same democracy and those same people are inaugurating a modern, digital, and self-reliant Assembly complex.

Friends,

This building is a sanctum of democracy. Every pillar here stands as a symbol of transparency. Every corridor reminds us of accountability. And every chamber reflects the voice of the people. The decisions taken here will shape Chhattisgarh’s destiny for decades to come. Every word spoken here will become a vital part of Chhattisgarh’s past, present, and future. I am confident that this building will serve as the centre of the state’s policy, destiny, and policymakers for generations.

Friends,

Today, the entire nation is moving forward by embracing both ‘Virasat’ (heritage) and ‘Vikas’ (development). And this spirit is visible in every policy and decision of the government. The sacred Sengol inspires our new Parliament. The new galleries of Parliament connect the entire world with the ancient roots of Indian democracy. The statues installed in the Parliament complex remind the world how deep the roots of democracy run in Bharat.

Friends,

I am delighted that this very vision and spirit of Bharat is also reflected in Chhattisgarh’s new Assembly building.

Friends,

The new Assembly complex of Chhattisgarh is a true reflection of the state’s rich culture. Every corner of this Assembly carries the inspiration of the great personalities who were born on the sacred soil of Chhattisgarh. Prioritizing the deprived, ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ (ensuring everyone’s participation, and promoting inclusive development) are the hallmarks of good governance under the BJP government, and they also represent the spirit of the nation’s Constitution. These values are the eternal teachings of our sages, seers, and great leaders.

Friends,

As I was observing this magnificent building, I could see the beautiful glimpse of Bastar art. I recall that I had presented a piece of Bastar art to the Prime Minister of Thailand a few months ago. This art form from Bastar is a symbol of our creativity and cultural strength.

Friends,

The walls of this Assembly carry the message of Baba Guru Ghasidas ji “Manikhe-Manikhe Ek Samaan” (Every human being is equal), which teaches us the essence of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Samman (togetherness, development for all, and respect for all). Every doorway of this building embodies the warmth and humility taught by Mata Shabari, reminding us to welcome every guest, every citizen, with affection. Each seat in this Assembly carries the spirit of truth and fearlessness taught by Saint Kabir. And in the very foundation of this building lies the resolve of Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya ji, which is ‘Nar Seva, Narayan Seva’ (Service to humanity is service to God.)

Friends,

Bharat is the mother of democracy. Our tribal society has, for generations, lived and practiced these democratic traditions. The Muria Darbar, known as the ‘Aadim Sansad’ (ancient parliament) of Bastar, is a living example of this heritage. For centuries, our society and governance have come together through the ‘Aadim Sansad’ to find collective solutions. I am pleased that this new Assembly also gives due space and respect to the tradition of the Muria Darbar.

Friends,

On one hand, every corner of this Assembly reflects the ideals of our great personalities, and on the other, its Speaker’s chair is graced by the experienced leadership of Raman Singh ji. Raman ji stands as a shining example of how a dedicated party worker, through hard work and devotion, can strengthen and uphold the democratic system in its truest spirit.

Friends,

In cricket, we often see that someone who was once a captain later continues to play as a team member, but such examples are rarely seen in politics. Yet Raman Singh ji sets exactly this example. Once the captain, he now continues to serve with true spirit and commitment for Chhattisgarh’s progress. He stands as an inspiration to every worker devoted to the service of the state.

Friends,

Rashtrakavi Nirala ji once prayed to Goddess Saraswati in his verse: प्रिय स्वतंत्र-रव अमृत-मंत्र नव भारत में भर दे (Fill new Bharat with the nectar of dear freedom’s chant). These were not just poetic lines, they were the mantra for building a new, free Bharat. He spoke of a new rhythm, new pace, and new voice, i.e., a vision of a Bharat deeply rooted in its traditions, yet moving forward with complete confidence toward the future. Today, as we stand in this new Assembly building of Chhattisgarh, that very spirit feels alive here. This building too is a symbol of that ‘new voice’ where the echo of old experiences meets the energy of new dreams. With this energy, we must build a Bharat and lay the foundation for a Chhattisgarh that stays connected to its ‘Virasat’ (heritage), yet confidently strides forward on the path of ‘Vikas’ (development).

Friends,

‘Nagrik Devo Bhava’ (the citizen is divine) is the guiding mantra of our good governance. That is why every decision taken in this Assembly must be rooted in the welfare of the people. Here, laws should be made that accelerate reform, simplify people’s lives, and reduce unnecessary government interference. There should be neither absence nor excess of government. This is the only true mantra for rapid progress.

Friends,

Our Chhattisgarh is the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram. Lord Ram is the beloved nephew of this land. And what could be a more auspicious occasion than today to remember the ideals of Lord Ram in this new Assembly complex. The ideals of Lord Ram teach us the principles of good governance. 

Friends,

During the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, we all took a pledge from “Dev to Desh” and from “Ram to Rashtra” (from God to Nation, from Ram to the Republic). We must remember that “Ram to Rashtra” means रामराज बैठे त्रैलोका। हरषित भए गए सब सोका i.e., a reign of good governance and public welfare. It means a rule guided by Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. “Ram to Rashtra” means नहिं दरिद्र कोउ, दुखी न दीना, i.e., a nation where no one is poor, no one is miserable; a prosperous Bharat free from poverty. “Ram to Rashtra” means अल्पमृत्यु नहिं कवनिउ पीरा i.e., no untimely death, no suffering from disease; the creation of a healthy and happy Bharat. “Ram to Rashtra” also means मानउँ एक भगति कर नाता i.e., a society free from discrimination, built on the foundation of social justice and equality for all.

Friends,

“Ram to Rashtra” also means “निसिचर हीन करउँ महि भुज उठाइ पन कीन्ह” i.e, the vow to eliminate forces against humanity, to end terrorism. And this is exactly what we have seen in Operation Sindoor. Taking the pledge to eradicate terrorism, Bharat has been breaking the backbone of terror networks. Bharat is now moving decisively towards ending Naxalism and Maoist violence. Bharat today stands filled with pride at its unprecedented victories, and this same spirit of pride radiates throughout this new Chhattisgarh Assembly complex.

Friends,

Chhattisgarh has witnessed a remarkable and inspiring transformation in the past twenty-five years. Once known for Naxalism and backwardness, today the same state has become a symbol of prosperity, security, and stability. The Bastar Olympics are now being discussed across the country. Areas once affected by Naxalism are now seeing a wave of development and smiles of peace. Behind this transformation lies the hard work of the people of Chhattisgarh and the visionary leadership of BJP governments.

Friends,

The Silver Jubilee celebrations of Chhattisgarh mark not just a milestone, but the beginning of a greater journey. By 2047, when Bharat celebrates 100 years of Independence, Chhattisgarh will play a major role in achieving the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). Therefore, I call upon everyone present here, every public representative, to build a system and an Assembly that inspires every state in ‘Viksit Bharat’ to achieve new heights. Let there be excellence in every debate, every question raised, and every discussion held in this House. Whatever we do, in whichever form we do it, our ultimate goal must be “Viksit Chhattisgarh, Viksit Bharat” (a developed Chhattisgarh for a developed India).

Friends,

The true greatness of this new Assembly will not be defined by its architectural grandeur, but by the welfare-oriented decisions made here. It will be measured by how deeply this House understands the dreams and aspirations of the people, and how determinedly it works to fulfil them. Every decision here should honour the farmer’s labour, guide the youth’s aspirations, bring new hope to ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s empowerment), and uplift the poorest in society. We must remember that this Assembly is not just a place for making laws, but it is a living centre for shaping Chhattisgarh’s destiny. Every idea born here must carry the spirit of public service, the resolve for development, and the confidence to take Bharat to greater heights. That is our collective resolve.

Friends,

In a democracy, duty must always come first. Let us all pledge, in this moment of the new Assembly’s inauguration, to dedicate our public life to fulfilling our responsibilities with integrity and commitment. From this sacred complex, in the Amrit Year of our Republic, let us take a vow to make service to the people the mission of our lives. I once again extend my heartiest congratulations and best wishes to everyone on the inauguration of this beautiful new temple of democracy. I especially congratulate the Chief Minister and my friend Raman Singh ji for turning this vision into reality. Jai Bharat! Jai Chhattisgarh! Thank you very much.

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MJPS/VJ/VK