In a historic move, the Sengol (sceptre), symbolizing the power of monarchs, was included in the ceremonial procession to welcome the President to the Parliament, marking a unique event in the history of India’s parliamentary traditions. Carried by Rajeev Sharma, a senior marshal in the Lok Sabha, the Sengol accompanied President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Speaker Om Birla during the parade.
Placed in front of the Speaker’s podium during the President’s Address to the Joint Session of Parliament, the Sengol was previously installed by PM Modi in the new Parliament building on its inauguration day. The Sengol holds historical significance, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighting its connection to the transfer of power from the British on the night of August 14, 1947.