President Ramnath Kovind on Saturday nominated dalit leader Ram Shakal, RSS ideologue and author Rakesh Sinha, sculptor Raghunath Mohapatra and classical dancer Sonal Mansingh to Rajya Sabha.
Ram Shakal has been a three-time Member of Parliament, representing Robertsganj constituency of Uttar Pradesh. A dalit leader, he is widely respected for championing the cause of farmers, labourers and migrants.
Rakesh Sinha is the Founder and Honorary Director of the Delhi-based think-tank “India Policy Foundation.” A Professor of Motilal Nehu College of Delhi University, he is also currently a member of the Indian Council of Social Science Research. [Interview with Rakesh Sinha from our archives]
Raghunath Mohapatra is an internationally renowned authority on stone carving. Practicing since 1959, he has trained over 2000 students. He has contributed to the preservation of traditional sculpture and ancient monuments, and has worked on the beautification of the Sri Jagannath Temple, Puri. His famous works include a six feet high statue of the Sun God carved in grey sandstone, in the Central Hall of Parliament; and the Wooden Buddha, Buddha Temple, Paris.
Sonal Mansingh has been performing Bharatnatyam and Odissi for over six decades. She is also a well-known choreographer, teacher, orator and social activist. She founded the Centre for Indian Classical Dances, in Delhi in 1977.
The Constitution provides that the president can nominate to Rajya Sabha 12 persons having special knowledge, or practical experience in respect of literature, science, art and social service. There were, currently, eight nominated members in the Rajya Sabha, and hence, four vacancies.