RS nomination for war veterans demanded

"The heroics of soldiers in war like Kargil or Siachen are no less important than the deeds of cricket or film personality to the country," Rajeev Chandrasekhar, an Independent member from Karnataka, said during discussion on the working of the Defence ministry.

"Nominating Sachin Tendulkar or film personality is okay, but soldiers who defend our country should also find place as nominated member in Rajya Sabha," he said.

Chandrasekhar said war veterans should be nominated to Rajya Sabha to raise voice of soldiers in Parliament.

Defence Minister A K Antony and his Deputy Pallam Raju were present when the demand was made.

Chandrasekhar earlier stressed on establishing a national memorial for soldiers who laid their lives while defending the country from external aggressors.

"Every country gives due honour to soldiers who sacrifice their lives for the country, but we do not have a memorial for them in our country," he said.