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The Congress has reportedly recommended cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's name for a nominated seat in the Rajya Sabha. Though an official announcement on this development is awaited, the Home Ministry is believed to have recommended four names, including Tendulkar and Bollywood actress Rekha for the Rajya Sabha. There is no word from the government on other two names. The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has written a letter to the Home Ministry on the issue. Tendulkar and his wife Anjali met Congress President Sonia Gandhi at her 10 Janpath residence in New Delhi on Thursday, and it is believed that the matter of Rajya Sabha nomination was brought up during their meeting. Officially though, the Congress said that Sonia Gandhi wanted to meet Tendulkar and personally congratulate him on achieving the historic milestone of scoring 100 international centuries. It has also been reported that the Congress has been touch with Tendulkar to seek his acceptance for a Rajya Sabha nomination during the past month. All political parties have said they would welcome Sachin Tendulkar being a member of the Upper House of Parliament. The 39-year-old master blaster has brought many a laurel to the country through his cricketing exploits, and Rekha, known for her brilliant and emotional portrayals in Hindi cinema in the 80s. If they accept, they 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.

Sachin Tendulkar's name proposed for Rajya Sabha seat