Opposition Boycotts Opening of India's New Parliament Building

Major opposition parties in India boycotted the inauguration of a new Parliament building by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, criticizing the event and accusing Modi of sidelining the head of state. At least 19 opposition parties skipped the event, which coincided with the birth anniversary of a Hindu nationalist ideologue. The new triangular-shaped building, built at an estimated cost of $120 million, is part of a $2.8 billion revamp of British-era offices and residences in central New Delhi that will also include blocks of buildings to house government ministries and departments, and Modi’s new private residence.