The film actor Govinda embarked on his second political inning this Thursday, joining the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. He is now anticipated to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from Mumbai North West. A likely face-off with Amol Kirtikar of Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena is on the cards. However, CM Shinde insists that Govinda has joined the party without any preconditions, promising to campaign vigorously for his candidates.
Govinda, whose political premiere took place back in 2004, had won his election as a Congress candidate and made his way to Parliament. About 20 years ago, he claimed victory in the North Mumbai constituency. He famously defeated several-time MP and prominent BJP leader Ram Naik during the 2004 Lok Sabha elections. Later, however, Govinda retreated from politics, and allegations of connections with the underworld, including Dawood Ibrahim, surfaced thereafter.
Ram Naik Accused Govinda of Underworld Links
BJP stalwart and former Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik claimed that during the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, Govinda enlisted the support of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim and builder Hiten Thakur to defeat him in Mumbai North. This claim also features in Naik's book, 'Charaiveti, Charaiveti' (Keep Moving On), where he alleges that Govinda nurtured friendships with Dawood and Thakur, intimidating voters to ensure his win. Naik also accused Govinda of manipulating media by airing his movies during the election period to sway voters.
Govinda Dismissed All Accusations
Govinda outrightly dismissed these accusations. He attested that it was the people who voted for him, and he didn't necessitate any underworld help. Govinda countered that alleging such ties was an insult to the constituency's populace, suggesting that they had been swayed by the underworld.
Govinda's Absence in the Parliamentary Proceedings
It is noteworthy that post his election, Govinda became notorious for absences in parliamentary sessions, having not attended a single sitting. During his five-year term, he also did not raise a single question in the house. When questioned by journalists, Govinda cited his busy shooting schedule and the aftermath of a grave accident involving his wife and children in Rajasthan had restricted his activities.
Goodbye to Politics for these Reasons
Govinda bid adieu to his political career in 2009, citing internal rivalry within Congress as an obstacle during his tenure. Denying any benefits from the party, he expressed feeling cornered within his own party, leading to his decision to focus on campaigning rather than contesting again.
Political Comeback When Acting Career Stumbles?
With his acting career on a downturn, Govinda has decided to kick-start his second inning in politics, this time aligning with Shiv Sena. His entry is set to add a starry glam to the Mahayuti, and it's speculated that along with Govinda, many of his celebrity colleagues might rally up for promotions, potentially benefiting Shiv Sena. And the chances of him contesting in the elections are quite strong.
Govinda Did Not Seek Candidacy: Shinde
After joining Shiv Sena, Govinda faced the media like a seasoned politician, joshing around with reporters. CM Eknath Shinde also cheered for him. At a press conference, CM Shinde stressed that Govinda’s inclusion would fortify the party. When asked about the possibility of Govinda contesting, Shinde clarified that there were no such conditions; Govinda hadn't asked for a ticket but assured he would campaign for the party's candidates.
Govinda: 'Back in Politics after 14 Years of Exile'
In a press conference, Govinda expressed emotional sentiments declaring his return to politics a divine message. Reflecting on his congress tenure from 2004 to 2009, he now believes to have returned from a 14-year exile to where the 'true governance' lies. He emotionally conveyed starting his journey empty-handed from Virar and how fate has graced him with everything an actor dreams of. Govinda professed his admiration for the works of PM Modi and CM Shinde.
