Congress shifts headquarters after 47 years: Sonia Gandhi leads flag hoisting, National Anthem at ‘Indira Bhawan’

Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi inaugurated the party's new headquarters located at 9A, Kotla Road in Delhi on Wednesday, marking a key moment in the history of the grand old party which has operated from the 24, Akbar Road premises for the last 47 years. (Photo/Agencies)

The inauguration was attended by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, former party chief Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, K C Venugopal, and other senior leaders. (Photo/Agencies)

During the event, party leaders hoisted the Congress flag, followed by the singing of Vande Mataram and the national anthem. (Photo/Agencies)

Sonia Gandhi inaugurated the building by cutting the ribbon at the entryway, joined by Mallikarjun Kharge. (Photo/Agencies)

The Congress party described the new headquarters as a monument rooted in the principles of democracy, nationalism, secularism, inclusive development, and social justice. “Cherishing the 140-year-old glorious history of the Congress, the walls here narrate the saga of truth, non-violence, sacrifice, struggle, and patriotism. With new energy, resolve, and confidence, the Congress is ready to shape India’s bright future, ensure people's participation, and hoist the flag of justice,” the party stated in a post on X. (Photo/Agencies)

The headquarters, named Indira Bhawan in honour of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, was under construction for over 15 years. (Photo/Agencies)

The construction of the new AICC headquarters was delayed by several years owing to "paucity of funds" ever since the Congress lost its government at the Centre. (Photo/Agencies)

News agency PTI reported that the party will not vacate its present 24, Akbar Road office, which has been its headquarters since 1978 after the Congress (I) was formed, and it will continue to house some of its cells. The BJP has also not vacated its old party headquarters at 11, Ashoka Road, even after shifting to its new headquarters at Deendayal Upadhyay Marg. (Photo/Agencies)

The Akbar Road office became the Congress headquarters in 1978 when Indira Gandhi established it as the base for her breakaway faction after the Emergency. (Photo/Agencies)

The unkempt British-era property, initially devoid of resources, evolved into the nerve centre of India's oldest political party, witnessing its triumphs and tribulations. (Photo/Agencies)

Over the years, 24 Akbar Road has been a witness to key events in Indian politics. It served as the center of Congress' political activities during Indira Gandhi’s political resurgence and assassination, as well as Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure as prime minister and his tragic assassination. (Photo/Agencies)