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News18
6 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Secrets, Spirits, And A Hidden Tunnel: What Lies Beneath The Delhi Assembly?
Last Updated: The secret tunnel under Delhi Vidhan Sabha once ran 1.5–2 km to Red Fort, used by the British to secretly move revolutionaries and prisoners, avoiding public attention or protests A secret gallows beneath the Delhi Assembly, along with a tunnel leading directly to the Red Fort, has sparked frequent controversies. The issue has been raised in both the Delhi Assembly and Parliament, and was recently brought up again in the Lok Sabha, prompting demands to convert the gallows into a museum. The site is believed to be haunted, with reports of mysterious sounds and paranormal occurrences. The current Delhi Assembly building was constructed by the British in 1912 when the capital was shifted from Kolkata to Delhi, originally named the 'Council House." It hosted the Central Legislative Council meetings and was the site of Bhagat Singh's bomb explosion. The building witnessed an era of stringent laws and repression during British India. Located in the basement of the Assembly building, the 'Hanging Cell" is a dark, narrow room with wooden frames and chains for hanging. It is believed that revolutionaries from the freedom movement were secretly executed here to avoid public uproar. These secret executions were common across various British sites, with no official records naming or dating the events. Historians estimate that 10 to 20 revolutionaries were hanged here between 1915 and 1930. Some believe the cell was also used for interrogation and torture. As there are no funeral or mass records of the martyrs, the site is considered 'cursed" or haunted by wandering souls. During a 2003 excavation by the Delhi government, this room was discovered, along with confirmation of a secret tunnel beneath the Vidhan Sabha building. The Tunnel To Red Fort The tunnel, which connected the Assembly building to the Red Fort, was used to secretly transport prisoners during British rule. Although demolished, remnants of the tunnel still exist. Historians view the gallows and tunnel as symbols of the British Empire's oppressive tactics against revolutionaries, whom they labelled as 'terrorists." In 2016, then Assembly Speaker Ramniwas Goyal proposed converting the site into a museum to highlight its historical significance. While the area remains closed to the public, special representatives and journalists have occasionally been granted access. Haunted Stories And Claims There are numerous stories and claims of paranormal activities associated with the hanging cell and tunnel. Due to its history, eerie atmosphere, and mystery, some consider the site 'haunted." Several staff members, security personnel, and reporters who have ventured near the basement or tunnel have reported sudden cold drafts, as if someone had just passed by. Others have claimed to hear sounds like chains rattling, whispers, or sobs, especially late at night or when the basement is deserted. In one account, a cleaner claimed to have sensed someone's presence, though no one was around. On several occasions, lights in the basement reportedly turned off or dimmed on their own, despite no electrical issues. These incidents are believed to have occurred near a room known as the 'Hanging Cell.' Some people reported a foul or rotten smell upon entering the basement, though no source was ever found. Many described feeling breathless, as if the place carried a heavy or negative energy. While the Delhi Assembly has never declared the site 'haunted', many believe that if someone dies and their last rites aren't performed, the spirit continues to wander. The Tunnel's Condition The secret tunnel beneath the Delhi Vidhan Sabha is a heritage mystery in itself. Once stretching 1.5 to 2 km to the Red Fort, it was built in a curved underground passage, deliberately avoiding a direct route under the road to keep it hidden. During British rule, revolutionaries, political prisoners, and suspects were secretly transported through it from the Red Fort to avoid drawing public attention or sparking protests. It is also believed that the tunnel may have been used for secret political activities or transferring documents during emergencies. Today, the tunnel is no longer in use and lies in a dilapidated state. Much of it is filled with debris and soil. Based on its brickwork and design, experts estimate it was built between 1912 and 1925. For security reasons, the tunnel has been sealed off to prevent misuse by anti-social elements. Haunted Anecdotes The Doctor's Dilemma: Around 2004, a medical team visited the basement of the Delhi Vidhan Sabha for a survey. One of the doctors reported that upon entering the 'hanging room," he suddenly experienced a severe headache and a sense of suffocation, which subsided as soon as he stepped out. Reflecting on the experience, he said, 'It felt as if someone didn't want me there." Sweeping Worker's Scream: A late-night sweeper reported hearing chains rattling and seeing a shadow, causing such fear that he quit his job the next day. Journalist's Reporting: A senior journalist who was taken to the basement during a tour of the Vidhan Sabha wrote that upon reaching the area, he heard someone crying and calling for help, yet no one was there. Assembly Speaker's Statement: In 2016, then Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel acknowledged that the basement had a 'strangely heavy and cold" atmosphere. He suggested it might be 'haunted" and proposed converting it into a memorial to honour the martyrs. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Delhi Assembly hanging journalists protest Red Fort secret tunnel vidhan sabha view comments Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: August 06, 2025, 17:30 IST News india Secrets, Spirits, And A Hidden Tunnel: What Lies Beneath The Delhi Assembly? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
India Gazette
18-06-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
Delhi government plans to transform Najafgarh drain into 30 MW canal-top solar power corridor
By Tanya Chugh New Delhi [India], June 18 (ANI): In a significant push towards clean energy and water conservation, the Delhi government is set to transform the Najafgarh Drain into a 30 MW canal-top solar power corridor. According to sources, the project will be implemented in phases, the first phase of which will generate 5 MW of solar power over a 6 km stretch from the Dhansa Border to Ghummanhera. The project is estimated to save nearly 270 million litres of water annually. Solar panels will not only generate electricity but also reduce the rate of water evaporation. This initiative is a part of the Delhi government's broader plan to triple the city's solar power capacity by 2027. The project will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Similar proposals are being considered for other drains such as the Barapullah and the Agra Canal. The Najafgarh Drain is a major source of pollution in the Yamuna River, and efforts are underway to improve its condition. Desilting drains that fall into the river and projects for rejuvenation of the Yamuna are also underway in the national capital. Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, LG VK Saxena, and PWD Minister Parvesh Verma are directly monitoring them. As part of its clean river initiative, the Delhi government is also installing 32 real-time water monitoring stations. Ten will be located on the Yamuna River itself, while 22 others will be set up on major city drains to monitor and address pollution levels, said a senior official. Meanwhile, the Delhi Cabinet also approved solar power subsidies in the state. Rs 1,08,000 will now be provided for 3KW solar panel installations. Earlier, the Central Government gave a subsidy of Rs 78,000, to which the Delhi Government has now added 30,000. Also, for 1KW solar panels, a subsidy of Rs 10,000 will be provided. The Delhi Vidhan Sabha is also being solar-powered by the government, where the foundation stone for a 500 KW Solar power plant had already been laid. This makes the Delhi Vidhan Sabha the first in the country to be solar-powered. These initiatives higlights the Delhi government's commitment to sustainable urban development and its goal of making the capital a leader in renewable energy adoption. (ANI)
New Indian Express
29-04-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Delhi Assembly to form nine-member panel for senior citizens' welfare inspired by Kerala model
NEW DELHI: The Delhi assembly will soon constitute a nine-member committee for senior citizens' welfare to ensure well being of the elderly in the city, Speaker Vijender Gupta said on Monday. He has directed the Secretary of the Delhi Vidhan Sabha to study the Kerala model and examine the feasibility of constituting a similar committee in Delhi. The initiative follows a meeting between a delegation from the Committee for Welfare of Senior Citizens, Kerala Legislative Assembly, and Speaker Gupta at the Delhi Vidhan Sabha on Monday. The delegation's visit aimed to share insights into Kerala's framework for senior citizen welfare and discuss the possibility of adapting it in Delhi. Commending Kerala's efforts, Gupta highlighted the need to enhance the well-being and dignity of senior citizens, recognizing their invaluable contributions to society. The Kerala delegation detailed the structure and functioning of their nine-member committee formed under Rule 261 of the Kerala Legislative Assembly Rules. The committee monitors the implementation of welfare schemes, oversees the management of old-age homes, ensures proper utilization of government funds, and recommends measures to address policy gaps for senior citizens. Gupta assured the delegation that the Delhi Assembly is actively considering establishing a similar body, reaffirming the city's commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of its elderly population. During the interaction, Gupta also briefed the delegation on the implementation of the National eVidhan Application (NeVA) at the assembly, aimed at promoting legislative transparency, digital governance. A delegation of Kerala Assembly met Speaker A delegation of Kerala Assembly's Committee for Welfare of Senior Citizens earlier in the day met Speaker Vijender Gupta at the Vidhan Sabha and discussed with him the formation of the new panel at the Delhi Assembly. The visiting delegation shared their insights into Kerala's senior citizen welfare rules and regulations of the committee.
Hans India
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Delhi Assembly Speaker, Kerala MLAs discuss welfare of elderly
Delhi Legislative Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta on Monday asked officials to study the Kerala model and examine the feasibility of constituting a Committee for Welfare of Senior Citizens, like the southern state. The direction was issued after Gupta's discussion with a delegation of the Committee of Kerala Legislative Assembly that oversees welfare schemes for the elderly. Gupta welcomed the delegation and commended Kerala Legislative Assembly initiatives in protecting senior citizen rights. He emphasised the importance of enhancing the well-being and dignity of the elderly population, recognising their invaluable contribution to society. Gupta briefed the delegation on the National eVidhan Application (NeVA), which is being implemented in the Delhi Vidhan Sabha to enhance legislative transparency, efficiency, and digital governance. The visiting delegation comprised four MLAs - K.P. Kunhammad Kutty Master, Ahammad Devarkovil, Mammikkutty P, and Job Maichil - who are members of the Committee for Welfare of Senior Citizens in Kerala Assembly. Gupta informed the delegation that the Delhi Vidhan Sabha is actively considering the establishment of a similar committee, reflecting Delhi's commitment to advancing the welfare and rights of senior citizens. The legislators from Kerala shared comprehensive insights into Kerala's senior citizen welfare rules and regulations of the committee, which are designed to promote dignity, well-being, and active participation of the elderly in society. They also detailed the formation and functioning of a nine-member Committee for Welfare of Senior Citizens under Rule 261 of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, which plays a pivotal role in monitoring the implementation of senior citizen welfare schemes by state and district councils. The Committee is also responsible for overseeing the functioning of old age homes managed by both state-run and private organisations, ensuring the proper utilisation of government funds allocated for senior citizens and recommending remedial measures to address issues in policy implementation. The visiting delegation was also taken on a guided tour of the historic Delhi Vidhan Sabha House, symbolising the shared commitment of both legislative bodies to democratic values and the continuous exchange of best practices for the welfare of senior citizens.
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First Post
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- First Post
Storyboard18 'Delhi Literature Festival' to kick off on May 2 at Bikaner House
The 2025 Storyboard18 Delhi Literature Festival will host some of India's finest minds and bestselling authors, including Amb. Abhay K, Dr. Aishwarya Pandit, Arun Anand, Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri (former diplomat), Ravi Shankar Etteth, Mukul Kumar, Pavan K. Varma, Taslima Nasrin etc read more The capital city is set to host one of its most anticipated cultural celebrations — the 13th edition of the Delhi Literature Festival — from May 2 to 4 at Bikaner House, Pandara Road, New Delhi. This year's theme, 'Delhi Writes: Voices, Visions & Verses', promises to spotlight Delhi's vibrant literary soul alongside powerful national conversations. The festival will be inaugurated by Gajendra S. Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture & Tourism, in the presence of leading dignitaries, including Rekha Gupta, Delhi Chief Minister; Vijender Gupta, Speaker, Delhi Vidhan Sabha; Kapil Mishra, Cabinet Minister for Culture & Tourism; Keshav Chandra, Chairman, NDMC; and Tim Curtis, Director & Representative, UNESCO India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Several key sessions intersecting policy, politics and literature will add political and intellectual gravitas to the festival. A special panel on 'Demography, Dialogue & Development' will be delivered by Sushri Bansuri Swaraj, Member of Parliament, delving into youth, governance and nation-building. A fireside chat titled 'Flowing Through Time: Healing The Yamuna' features Parvesh Sahib Singh, Cabinet Minister, Delhi, highlighting ecological heritage and sustainable futures. The festival will also witness a no-holds-barred conversation with political commentator and author Dr. Anand Ranganathan, titled 'Unscripted, Unapologetic, Unfiltered.' Over the three days, the festival will host some of India's finest minds and bestselling authors, including Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri (former diplomat), presenting Swallowing the Sun; Amb. Abhay K, with his national bestseller Nalanda – How It Changed The World; Dr. Aishwarya Pandit, exploring Indian Renaissance: The Modi Decade; Ravi Shankar Etteth, Arun Anand, Pavan K. Varma, Taslima Nasrin, Mukul Kumar, and many more. There is a dedicated session on Hindi Poetry: 'Itwaar Chhota Pad Gaya'. There will also be a discussion on 'Can we be strangers again', national bestseller by Shrijeet Shandilya. Also, Nityananda Misra will talk about his book, 'Kumbha: The Traditionally Modern Mela'. The festival will also feature the Delhi Literature Festival Awards 2025, honouring excellence in seven literary categories, and 'Writers of the New Century', an open competition for young writers. The festival will conclude with a live performance by Meenu Bakshi, presented by Renu Hussain. Book lovers can explore curated selections at the Kunzum Bookstore, the official Bookstore Partner of the festival. Food and conversation will flow freely at the venue, with gourmet options from Diggin Cafe, L'Opera, Haldiram, and Havemore available on site. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The festival continues its legacy of bringing together thought leaders, literary icons, policymakers and the public to celebrate India's evolving literary and cultural landscape. The free registration and programme details are available
