Jothimani, who sought the Aravakurichi seat in Karur district from Congress leadership began the election campaign even before seat allotments were finalised. She was hand-picked by Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi for the post of All India Youth Congress general secretary. She did not get the seat as the DMK wanted it for K.C. Palanisamy.
Speaking to DC, Jothimani appeared bitter with society and the media for projecting actors instead of young political functionaries who are working with people.
Q Are there any chances that the Congress will get Aravakurichi seat? Have you asked the state leadership to try again for getting the seat?
The state leadership is aware of what is happening in Aravakurichi. There is no need to talk to them again. My campaign itself is based on Rahul Gandhi's idea. I hope that he may try to get the seat for me.
Q When a former minister Senthil Balaji is contesting the seat, do you think you can win the election?
We need not be afraid of fighting people with money or muscle power or those who have been dismissed from the minister's post for wrongdoings. We should be afraid only to face people
Q You have actually come from a traditional Congress family. How do you respond to the criticism that new entrants and popular film stars are given more priority in the party than people like you?
I will not say the party is giving importance to new entrants alone. There are many leaders in Congress who have been given posts and chances to contest elections. Entry of new people is always welcome. Celebrities and actors are given more importance since they can attract people towards the party. The media also gives importance to actors and not workers like us. I cannot blame the party for giving importance to actors. When society is like that, what can the party do?
Q If you contest the elections, will it split the votes and help the victory of AIADMK?
Why do you think that I will not win. I have worked with the people in the constituency who know me well. They are affectionate towards me. They will certainly vote for me. I am confident that I will win.
Q Will you contest if you are given Karur constituency?
I don't want to let down the people in Aravakurichi who are eagerly hoping I will contest here. I cannot disappoint them. I will contest only in Aravakurichi.
