Mumbai: The battle for Rampur in Uttar Pradesh is no less than a Bollywood potboiler. In her first rally after her induction as BJP’s candidate for the constituency, Jaya Prada broke down recalling the threats she had received from Azam Khan earlier, her nemesis at the upcoming polls. “I left Rampur and active politics because they [Samajwadi party] tried to attack me with acid,” she lamented. Incidentally, it was Azam Khan who had persuaded her to contest the 2004 Lok Sabha polls. But in the next election, Khan vehemently opposed her candidature in 2009 elections but she won, nonetheless. The actress-turned-politician returns to Rampur after five years and says, “I am very happy to see the people of Rampur who have welcomed me with open arms and are supporting me.”
Jaya Prada, who came into the limelight with Rishi Kapoor-starrer Sargam in 1985, has been known to be reserved in her conversations but years in politics has made her resilient. “My political career has enriched my knowledge about staying away from negative vibes. I create a positive aura and am able to speak in front of lakhs of people only because I have learnt my lessons well. I am dedicated, adamant and committed. Although these three qualities can be considered as minus points in a woman but for me, this is a blessing. People have a wrong notion that film stars don’t make good politicians. I must tell those who address stars with derogatory comments that people like us work for the betterment of their constituency with heart and soul.”
The politician believes that women can bring a positive change in politics. “Even in the political arena, we need good people to join politics. I believe women can lead the country.”
As the election arena heats up, the veteran actress is not affected by the mudslinging and name calling that is routinely being inflicted on her. “You will only read in books that women have the right to equality. The scenario is much different in real life. Women politicians don’t get much support and girl power is being suppressed. The 33% Women Reservation Bill is yet to be passed. For ages, women have been subjected to not getting equal rights as men. Even in the Assembly, they have been routinely attacked and this has been ongoing for years. Ministers like Lalu Parasd Yadav were totally against passing the reservation bill.”
When asked if she expected to be fielded from Rampur instead of Rajahmundry where she originates from, Jaya says, “I would love to file my nominations from the South Constituency. But it’s our Party decision. I am happy to get immense support from the people of Rampur. All I can say If I win, I will work for the well being of the people here, especially the women folk and the farmers,” she concludes.
