New Delhi, July 13, 2025: In a move that brings together experience, intellect, and social service, President Droupadi Murmu has nominated four distinguished individuals to the Rajya Sabha. These nominations are made under Article 80(1)(a) of the Constitution, which empowers the President to nominate members with special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art, and social service.
Who Are the New Rajya Sabha Nominees?
The newly nominated members represent diverse sectors and bring a wealth of knowledge to the Upper House:
- Ujjwal Nikam – A senior criminal lawyer known for prosecuting high-profile cases including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
- Harsh Vardhan Shringla – A veteran diplomat and former Foreign Secretary of India, also served as Ambassador to the US.
- Dr. Meenakshi Jain – A noted historian and author recognized for her research on Indian civilization and culture.
- C Sadanandan Master – A respected teacher and social worker from Kerala known for his contributions to grassroots education.
Constitutional Mandate and Its Importance
Article 80 of the Indian Constitution allows the President to nominate up to 12 members to the Rajya Sabha. These individuals must possess special knowledge in fields such as literature, science, art, and social service. This provision ensures that non-political voices with deep subject matter expertise have a platform in parliamentary proceedings.
The latest nominations come as a response to recent vacancies in the Rajya Sabha due to the retirement of previously nominated members.
Meet the Faces: A Closer Look at the Nominees
Ujjwal Nikam – The Legal Warrior
Known for his fierce arguments and unwavering commitment to justice, Ujjwal Nikam has handled over 600 criminal cases. His most notable cases include the prosecution of 1993 Bombay blasts and 2008 Mumbai attacks perpetrators. Nikam has been widely praised for upholding the law with fairness and courage.
Harsh Vardhan Shringla – Diplomatic Stalwart
Harsh Vardhan Shringla served as India’s 33rd Foreign Secretary. A career diplomat, he played a key role in shaping India’s foreign policy with major countries like the United States, France, and Myanmar. His tenure was marked by clear-headed diplomacy and deep strategic thinking.
Dr. Meenakshi Jain – The Cultural Historian
Dr. Jain is a former fellow of the Indian Council of Historical Research and author of acclaimed books like *“Rama and Ayodhya.”* Her nomination is seen as a step toward promoting academic diversity and deeper engagement with India’s cultural heritage in policymaking.
C Sadanandan Master – The People’s Teacher
C Sadanandan Master is a grassroots educator from Kerala. He has worked tirelessly to bring education to rural communities. As a social worker, his focus on inclusive growth and ethical leadership has earned him wide respect in southern India.
Public Reaction and Political Significance
The nominations have sparked positive reactions across political and civil society circles. Experts say this move reflects a balanced approach by the government to include professionals who bring practical experience, integrity, and diversity into national decision-making.
With general elections approaching in 2026, this also signals the ruling establishment’s intent to broaden its intellectual and grassroots base.
Why It Matters
Such nominations inject fresh perspectives into national debates. The presence of non-political professionals in the Rajya Sabha helps bridge the gap between policy and public interest. Their voices can offer non-partisan insight and hold sway in key legislative discussions.
Conclusion
President Murmu’s latest Rajya Sabha nominations reflect a thoughtful mix of legal acumen, foreign policy expertise, cultural knowledge, and social commitment. This blend can enrich parliamentary debates and promote informed legislation for India’s future.
