This refers to media reports about party tickets being considered for Rajya Sabha to defeated political heavyweights in the recently-held elections to the state assemblies. It is an irony that physically and mentally disabled George Fernandes was allowed as Rajya Sabha member even though his oath was read by some other member of the Rajya Sabha. He could not even properly sign the oath register.

Defeated political heavyweights are rehabilitated by giving them posts, including the post of governors which allow them cars with ‘beacon’. This should not happen and all those who lose in elections to Lok Sabha or state assemblies must not be allowed in the upper house for the next six years.

They should also not hold any post at the cost of public exchequers for next six years after losing in direct elections. Unethical case of wasting a Rajya Sabha seat for George Fernandes just for retaining a type-VIII ministerial bungalow together with monetary and other facilities, also calls for a medical fitness for all filing nominations. Permanent absence from the House for a year should result in auto-termination from membership of the House. Rajya Sabha membership of George Fernandes should be cancelled because RTI response confirms that he could not properly take oath.

Post emergency, the year 1977 witnessed a healthy move of abolishing useless legislative councils in states when only five remained at a time. But gradually many states have revived these ‘white elephants’ only for political rehabilitation. Constitutional provision of having Vidhan Parishads in states should be abolished even though Rajya Sabha may be retained but with suitable modifications.