Sachin, Rekha criticized for missing parliament (Update/Sachin)

Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has been heavily criticized for skipping parliament after it emerged that the Bharat Ratna awardee is yet to attend a single session this year. Tendulkar was nominated as a Rajya Sabha member in April 2012. Actress Rekha too came under flak for her poor attendance.

Former cricketer and current MP Kirti Azad said, "When he used to play cricket he never skipped practice for even one day. Now that he's retired, he should attend parliament. Everybody should fulfill their responsibilities." Javed Akhtar agreed, stating that membership of parliament is not a trophy to be taken once. "It is a privilege to be a part of the Rajya Sabha. He has certain responsibilities and he should perform them."

CPM MP P Rajeev also questioned their absence, stating that as per Article 101, if a member is absent for 60 sittings then his seat is deemed to be back, while pointing out that Sachin has absent from 40 sittings. Speaking to ANI, he said, "We respect him, he is a great sportsperson.

He has a rich knowledge and can contribute for better parliament. However, if he is absent from parliament then he should inform the chairman."

JD(U) minister Ali Anwar went a step further, calling their inclusion in the Rajya Sabha "ornamental" and questioning the wisdom to be make them MPs.

Sitaram Yechury said that the issue was raised in the Rajya Sabha because other members wanted their inputs on issues in the parliament. "However, we were informed that attendance in the Rajya Sabha is not compulsory by law, so no legal recourse can be taken," he added.