Political class wants Sachin to now attend Parliament

Hopes of millions of cricket fans might have come to an end with Sachin's retirement. But the political class of India has a new wish-list for Sachin Tendulkar: they want the master-blaster to spend more time on the pitch of Parliament. HT reports.

Hopes of millions of cricket fans might have come to an end. But the political class of India—showing a rare unity—has a new wish-list for Sachin Tendulkar: they want the master-blaster to spend more time on the pitch of Parliament.

Describing Tendulkar as one of the greatest cricketers who would continue to inspire budding ones, BJP vice president Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said, “Sachin will remain an inspirational icon even after his retirement. He would also be able to focus more on his work in Parliament, of which was made a nominated member by the President.”

One of India’s top cricket stars Tendulkar was nominated to Rajya Sabha in April 2012, along with Hindi film actor Rekha. He was later made a member in the standing committee on Information Technology and a member of Parliamentary Forum on Youth.

While Tendulkar’s tight cricket schedule saw him attending parliament just three days so far, CPI(M)’s Sitaram, another Rajya Sabha member, hopes to see him more often now in the House. “All great things come to an end. But he should now get more active in Parliament.” In his trademark style, Yechury also asked the UPA to keep in mind Tendulkar’s example: “It is also a lesson that if you stop performing, you should call it a day.”