“Happy that I’m getting bigger platform to work”: Sudha Murty on Rajya Sabha nomination

After President Droupadi Murmu nominated Sudha Murty for the Rajya Sabha, Sudha Murty expressed her happiness at receiving a larger platform to work for the underprivileged. She emphasized that her nomination and work were not related to politics.

“I’m happy, at the same time I feel I have been given more responsibility. I’ll work my level best. On a personal level, I am happy that I’m getting a bigger platform to work for the poor,” Sudha Murty told ANI on Friday.

When asked about whether her nomination could be seen as a step into politics, Sudha Murty clarified that she did not consider herself a politician.

“I don’t think that I could consider myself as a politician and I’m not a politician. I’m a nominated Rajya Sabha member. My son-in-law’s (UK PM Rishi Sunak) politics is for his country and it is different, and my work is different. I’m a government worker now,” she said.

Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appreciation of her nomination, Sudha Murty said, “It’s very nice of him to appreciate my work. I want to thank the Prime Minister very much.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Sudha Murty on her nomination to the Rajya Sabha, describing it as a “powerful testament” to India’s “Nari Shakti” on International Women’s Day.

“I am delighted that the President of India has nominated Sudha Murty to the Rajya Sabha. Sudha Ji’s contributions to diverse fields including social work, philanthropy and education have been immense and inspiring. Her presence in the Rajya Sabha is a powerful testament to our ‘Nari Shakti’, exemplifying the strength and potential of women in shaping our nation’s destiny,” PM Modi posted on X on Friday.

BJP chief JP Nadda also congratulated Sudha Murty, praising her commitment to making a positive impact in society.

“Congratulations to Smt Sudha Murty ji for the prestigious nomination as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Sudha Ji’s unwavering dedication to community service, her tireless efforts in the field of education, and her remarkable philanthropic endeavours serve as a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals. Her commitment to making a positive impact on society is truly commendable. You embody the strength of ‘Nari Shakti.’ Wishing you success on your parliamentary journey,” Nadda posted on X.

Sudha Murty, a well-known author, has contributed to English and Kannada literature and retired as the chairperson of the Infosys Foundation on December 31, 2021. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2023 for her contribution in the field of social work and received the Padma Shri in 2006. Sudha Murty is married to Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murty and is the mother-in-law of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.