Nominated members

The President of India has nominated four distinguished individuals to the Rajya Sabha: former diplomat Harsh Shringla, Special Public Prosecutor in the Ajmal Kasab case Ujjwal Nikam, historian Meenakshi Jain, and Kerala teacher C. Sadanandan Master. This move brings two high-profile figures into the Upper House of Parliament.

Details of the Nominations:

• Total Nominees: The President of India nominates 12 persons to the Rajya Sabha. These individuals are selected for their eminence in the fields of arts, letters, science, and public service.
• Current Vacancies Filled: Out of these 12 nominated seats, four were currently vacant, and these nominations fill those positions.
• Constitutional Provision: The nominations were made under sub-section (a) of clause (1) of Article 80 of the Indian Constitution. This article empowers the President to nominate individuals who have made significant contributions in the fields of art, literature, science, and social service.

Powers and Privileges of Nominated Members:

• Political Affiliation: A nominated member has the option to join a political party within six months of taking their seat in the House.
• Parliamentary Rights: They enjoy all the powers and privileges to which elected Members of Parliament are entitled.
• Participation: Nominated members can take part in the proceedings of the House in the normal manner, including debates and discussions.
• Electoral College for Vice-President: The Electoral College for the Vice-President’s election consists of all members of both Houses of Parliament, including nominated members.
• Exclusion from Presidential Election: However, nominated members are not allowed to vote in the election of the President.