New Delhi, 13 August (H.S.):

The Delhi Legislative Assembly building and its premises will remain open to the general public on August 14 and 15 on the occasion of the country’s 80th Independence Day. Visitors will be able to enter the Assembly complex between 5 pm and 8 pm on both days to explore its rich history, heritage and democratic traditions. No prior registration will be required. However, every visitor must carry an Aadhaar card or another valid identity document for entry into the Assembly premises.

The Independence Day celebrations will feature a special blend of history, culture and public participation. Bands of the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will present patriotic musical performances, while the Sahitya Kala Parishad will organise a range of cultural programmes showcasing India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.

The historic Delhi Assembly building will also be specially illuminated in the colours of the national flag during the evening as part of the celebrations.

Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht, members of the Assembly and other distinguished guests will attend the event.

Speaking on Thursday, Vijender Gupta said Independence Day was an occasion not only to remember the sacrifices of great freedom fighters and patriots but also to strengthen citizens’ connection with democratic institutions.

He said opening the doors of the Delhi Assembly to the public symbolised the fundamental principle that democratic institutions ultimately belong to the people they were established to serve.

Gupta said the initiative would give citizens an opportunity to visit the historic Assembly building and important heritage sites within the complex, while also gaining a better understanding of the Assembly’s role in Delhi’s legislative and democratic history.

He said the initiative was particularly aimed at connecting young people with India’s democratic traditions, institutions and constitutional values that have shaped the country’s democratic journey.

Gupta said the patriotic performances by the BSF and CRPF bands, along with cultural programmes organised by the Sahitya Kala Parishad, would be among the major attractions of the celebrations.

He said the programmes would bring together the themes of patriotism, national unity and India’s diverse cultural heritage. The event, he added, would highlight the country’s unity, integrity and the richness of its cultural diversity.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar