NEW DELHI: Actor-politician and sitting MP Ravi Kishan, who is seeking re-election from Gorakhpur, believes the dignity of the polls has been compromised by the opposition’s personal attacks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kishan asserts that the BJP will achieve a landslide victory based on the accomplishments of PM Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath. He describes the INDIA bloc as an “immature coalition” that will disintegrate post-elections. In a conversation with TOI’s Mohita Tewari, he discussed his election prospects and priorities. Excerpts:
Q: What are your dreams for Gorakhpur?
A: It’s my dream to establish a regional film city in Gorakhpur, akin to the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune. As a cinema enthusiast and a pioneer of the Bhojpuri film industry in Mumbai, I have provided employment to around one lakh people. I know how to generate jobs through cinema. I aim to help countless children from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar pursue their careers in this field within their home state, avoiding the struggle in Mumbai.
Q: Gorakhpur faces issues like waterlogging, unemployment, and traffic jams. What have you done to address these as an MP?
A: We’ve invested over Rs 1,000 crore to tackle waterlogging, including setting up a water regulator in Tarkulani village to divert excess water to the river. We are also constructing the Goddhaiya Nala with an investment of Rs 1,100 crore, with 80% of the work completed. For employment, we’ve established the Gorakhpur Industrial Development Authority, attracting major companies and creating job opportunities. I’ve also raised the need for an IIT and IIM in Gorakhpur in Parliament, which would enhance educational and technical skills. To address traffic issues, we’ve secured Rs 2,650 crore for the construction of a ring road, which is currently in progress.
Q: The opposition labels you an ‘outsider’ and claims you spend more time in Mumbai than in Gorakhpur. What is your response?
A: You’re here in my home; I’ve relocated with my family. My social media over the past five years documents my active presence here, from overseeing construction projects to aiding during the pandemic. I’ve raised 500 questions in Parliament and am recognized as the top parliamentarian from Uttar Pradesh.
Q: How will BJP perform in Purvanchal this time? In 2019, despite the ‘Modi wave,’ BJP won 18 out of 27 seats. Will BJP win all 80 seats in UP?
A: Seats are won through work and commitment. PM Modi is a man of his word, and the same goes for CM Yogi. From the Ram Mandir to the Ayushman Yojana, our promises have been fulfilled. I am confident we will achieve a significant victory in this region, securing the majority of seats in UP, including all in Purvanchal.
Q: You are one of BJP’s star campaigners. How is this election different for you compared to 2019?
A: I have never seen such a low level of politics. The opposition lacks facts and resorts to personal attacks against PM Modi and CM Yogi. They offer nothing but baseless accusations. The opposition’s coalition is merely an immature grouping that will fall apart after the elections.
Q: Last time, it was the SP-BSP alliance; now, it’s the INDIA bloc. Will it pose a challenge to you and the party?
A: These alliances are temporary, dissolving after elections. The opposition doesn’t understand India’s grassroots. PM Modi’s government has worked for all sections of society, garnering support from diverse communities, including backward classes, SCs, and Muslim women. Government schemes like free ration distribution and housing for the poor have benefited many. PM Modi even inspired my recent film, “Lapata Ladies,” about organic farming and real India, which is well-received.
Q: What win margin are you aiming for? How many seats will BJP win in UP and nationally?
A: Last time, we celebrated a ‘Damru’ of success; this time, it will be a resounding ‘Nagada.’ I am confident our party will secure a massive victory.
