Sachin Tendulkar Joins Politics, Says yes to Rajya Sabha nomination

Sachin Tendulkar Joins Politics, Says yes to Rajya Sabha nomination

Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has accepted the Rajya Sabha nomination proposed by the Congress, according to reports. He is the first active sportsperson and cricketer to have been nominated to the Rajya Sabha.
The Home Ministry had recommended four names including those of Tendulkar, Bollywood actress Rekha and industrialist Anu Agha for the Rajya Sabha. Reports say that Rekha and Agha have also accepted the nominations.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had written a letter to the Home Ministry on the issue. The Congress had offered to nominate Tendulkar under the President’s quota.
The 39-year-old master blaster who has brought many a laurel to the country through his exploits in the game, and Rekha, known for her brilliant and emotional portrayals in Hindi cinema in the 80s, will become members of Parliament under a provision of the Constitution that allows the President to nominate 12 members to the Upper House.
Article 80 of the Constitution provides for nomination of persons having special knowledge or practical experience in matters such as literature, science, art and social service.