These are manipulative campaigns that try to capitalise on people's emotions. You're not addressing the basic needs of the people. I don't believe in that kind of campaign. What is important is the issues you are placing in front of the people when you ask them to vote for you.
I don't think any Hindu, Muslim, Sikh or Christian will want a temple or mosque built in lieu of food on their plate or school seats and jobs for their children. The issues should be those that affect and benefit every citizen.
Another thing that bothers me is how political parties are using negative issues to make an impact. Nobody knew of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena until they targeted North Indians. No one knew of the Sri Ram Sene until they attacked those women in Mangalore. Now, they both are firmly entrenched in the public radar. We give these people too much importance. Both we and the media are responsible for the kind of visibility they have today.
You have been an MP for three-and-a-half years, after winning in the 2005 by-election following the death of your father. How would you rate your performance?
I would give myself seven-and-a-half marks on ten.
(To Roncon) As a constituent, what issues would you raise with her?
Roncon: I don't want to talk about fundamentals, which is not her job but which she spends most of her time doing -- like roads and gutters and paani. I would like to see her lead a consortium of MPs across party lines from Mumbai, or at least initiate that process.
I would like her to represent more funding for Mumbai through the energy that we can all generate. With the kind of people power and influence that we have behind these six MPs, there's nothing we can't achieve for Mumbai.
Also see: 'People shoo me away because I am north Indian' | India Votes 2009
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