Subramanian Swamy, Navjot Siddhu, Mary Kom, Salim Khan likely to get Rajya Sabha berths

New Delhi: Veteran BJP leader and noted lawyer Subramanian Swamy, former MP  and cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, Olympic medalist boxer Mary Kom, famous screenwriter Salim Khan and popular Malayalam actor Suresh Gopi are likely to be nominated to the Rajya Sabha, according to sources.

As per media reports, the ruling BJP has decided to fill up the Rajya Sabha vacancies in the nominated category, possible before the Parliament session starts on Monday.

As per reports, the BJP disposition has shortlisted the names of Swamy – a known critic of the Gandhi family, Malayalam actor Suresh Gopi, journalist Swapan Dasgupta, Olympic medallist Mary Kom, economist Narendra Jadhav, Navjot Singh Sidhu and Salim Khan.

The Rajya Sabha has 12 nominated members in its total strength of 245. Of the 12 nominated members, there are seven vacancies at present.

Swamy's entry in Rajya Sabha is being seen as a mastersroke by the BJP government considering his knowledge and oratory skills.

Swamy on Friday took to twitter to thank his supporters and said, “as MP I will get the most important forum speaking on nations issues.”

I thank PTs for the consistent support through the last two years. As MP I will get the most important forum speaking on nation;s issues

— Subramanian Swamy (@Swamy39) April 22, 2016

On the government’s recommendation, the President nominates members from those with special knowledge or having made their mark in literature, science, art and social service.

Currently, there are already five nominated members by the President: - industrialist Anu Agha, lawyer K Parasaran, actor Rekha, cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and senior advocate KTS Tulsi – who were nominated by the UPA government.