PM Narendra Modi inaugurates India-funded building of Bhutan Supreme Court

THIMPHU: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the Bhutanese Supreme Court building which was built here by India at a cost of around Rs 70 crore, a gesture hailed by the Bhutanese Chief Justice as a "symbol of generosity".

Modi, who is here on a two-day visit, unveiled the plaque that has his name written on it. Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Chief Justice Sonam Tobgay were also present.

Modi also took a tour of the building. The foundation stone of the building was laid on October 13, 2005 and construction started on December 25, 2008.

The concept and design of the Supreme Court is drawn from Bhutanese history, mythology, spiritual traditions as well as the modern values of justice.

Speaking on the occasion, the Bhutanese Chief Justice said it is an illustration of India-Bhutan friendship.

"The grandeur of the building is the symbol of generosity of India," the Chief Justice said, adding "this goodwill will not go waste".

Hailing Modi, he said he is "now a figure of destiny, not only of India but also of the region and the world".

The goodwill displayed by India will "be forever ingrained in the hearts of people of Bhutan", he said.