‘Truant Sachin, Rekha not breaching Rajya Sabha rules’

NEW DELHI: Rajya Sabha deputy chairperson PJ Kurien on Friday said the two nominated celebrity MPs — cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and actor Rekha — have so far not violated the stipulated rule about attendance.

P Rajeeve of the CPM raised the issue of their absence during zero hour. Earlier in the current session when leave application of Tendulkar and Rekha came before the House for consideration, Rajeeve questioned their long absence and demanded action. Kurien had promised to give his ruling later.

On Friday Kurien said Tendulkar last attended the house on December 13, 2013 and Rekha was last seen on February 19, 2014. Kurien said under Article 104 (I) of the Constitution, members have to be on continuous leave for 60 days to attract disqualification. Tendulkar, he said, has been on leave for 40 days and Rekha for 20 days.

The Rajya Sabha secretary general will now write to the cricketer reminding him that if he continues to be absent for the next 20 days he will be disqualified.

Sachin Tendulkar.

Later, Rajeeve said, "We are not opposed to nominated members. Their job is to enlighten the house with knowledge." He gave instances of former HLL chairperson Ashok Ganguly, journalist HK Dua, artist Jaishree, industrialist Anu Aga and Javed Akhtar. "Dua is very regular. He has even introduced a private member's bill. Anu Aga attends the house regularly though she could make her maiden speech after two years. Two eminent lawyers K Parasaran and KTS Tulsi take keen interest. Javed Akhtar made significant contribution to discussions on copyright bill," Rajeeve said.

As for Tendulkar, the CPM MP said, "Sports is not among the categories for which members are nominated. But since President has nominated him he should attend the house more regularly."

Rekha.

Reacting to the issue, BJP Rajya Sabha MP MA Naqvi told TOI, "There have been many nominated members who participated and contributed to the proceedings of the Upper House in an effective and positive way. But unfortunately, some nominated members have remained ceremonial identities in the House. When a member is chosen he or she willingly agrees to the nomination. After that it is his or her responsibility and constitutional duty to participate and perform as members of Parliament."