You have contested in several elections. How do you see this one?

As a party, we (the BJP) are growing. I always contest with a belief that there is no harm in trying. In our early days, there would not be anyone to contest on behalf of the party. But I have never hesitated to contest. We have faced very challenging situations. Now, the party’s growth in Tamil Nadu is quite excellent. Even in the [2024] Lok Sabha election, we got a substantial number of votes. I am contesting in the Assembly, which falls under the same [Chennai South] Lok Sabha constituency. Some would ask me why I am contesting even after serving as Governor for two States (Telangana and Lt. Governorn in Puducherry).

For me, public life is neither for adornment nor for power. It is for love... When I was Governor, my residence got the name ‘Praja Bhavan’ (People’s Palace) because, during the COVID-19 period, it served the needs of the people... I am contesting as a very simple person. The people will definitely give me a chance.

It was widely speculated you would be given a ticket from either T. Nagar or Velachery...

In the [previous] Lok Sabha polls, we had secured a good number of votes in those two constituencies [T. Nagar and Velachery]. Therefore, I thought I should contest in one of the Assembly segments in South Chennai. Every constituency has a favourable point. For example, I reside in Virugambakkam. In T. Nagar and Velachery, we came very close to the DMK. So, support-wise, we preferred those two. I consider Mylapore a chance given by God. This is a place of heritage.

What are the main issues in Mylapore and what solutions do you propose?

The MLA elected from here [Mylapore] is not in touch with the people. He concentrated on his business and increased his money power. There are no basic amenities here. We think of Chennai as a cosmopolitan [city]. [Chief Minister] Mr. Stalin said he will transform Chennai into Singapore, but they have not even maintained Mylapore.

There are open drains. Housing board tenements are crumbling. There is no adequate supply of drinking water. Many false promises were given to the people. It is a constituency with no basic amenities at all. There are no facilities for devotees coming to the [Kapaleeshwarar] temple. This place has to be made a heritage hub and tourism centre. There is a need here for an MLA who would work.

There is a criticism that the BJP is repeatedly giving opportunities to well-known faces and banking on their popularity…

I don’t think that is a fair criticism. Those who have worked hard for the party’s growth for a long time will get recognition. Should they not? Also, why is this criticism against our party alone? Stalin is contesting repeatedly. [DMK general secretary] Duraimurugan is contesting repeatedly. In all parties, prominent leaders are in the fray. We have given chances to youngsters as well, striking a balance. This is a criticism deliberately being spread by some.

Mr. Stalin continues to portray this election as a battle between Tamil Nadu and Delhi. How do you see that?

This is an election between the people of Tamil Nadu, particularly the women, and the DMK. Until now, the women of Tamil Nadu have never felt insecurity to this extent. Therefore, it is a contest between the people of the State and Stalin. The women will win. Stalin claims he has done many things. In reality, basic facilities are not available. He is focusing on advertisements alone.

Another issue the DMK has taken up now is delimitation, that it would reduce the representation of Tamil Nadu in the Lok Sabha…

Fearing defeat, Stalin would take up issues like this when he is unable to place forward what his government has done for the people. They [the DMK] will take up the language issue. It has been made clear that delimitation would not affect Tamil Nadu in any way. The Prime Minister [Narendra Modi] has said it. What are you [Mr. Stalin] doing o resolve the day-to-day issues in Tamil Nadu? Without looking at them, he is trying to distract people. It shows his failure.

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam is making its electoral debut. Actor C. Joseph Vijay is also contesting for the first time. How do you see his entry?

We cannot deny anyone’s entry into politics in a democracy. At the same time, we cannot conclude that all actors who enter politics will become successful in their debut because of their popularity. He is a player, that is all. There is no chance for him to win seats.

I appeal to Vijay’s supporters not to waste their votes [by voting for him] and vote for the winning NDA. Because if this vote splits, it would become advantageous to the DMK, which he wants to defeat. Let his followers worship him, celebrate him. But Vijay cannot become the Chief Minister. Stalin has to be removed from the Chief Minister’s post. Therefore, people should think before voting.

Mr. Vijay has repeatedly pitched this election as a fight between the TVK and the DMK, completely dismissing the AIADMK-led NDA…

He may dismiss it. But the people of Tamil Nadu won’t dismiss it. In Tamil Nadu’s political history, how can a long-standing political party be dismissed? That is a wrong approach.

As a doctor, how do you ensure that you, as well as the party members accompanying you for campaigns, stay hydrated this summer?

We have arranged for adequate drinking water. Buttermilk is served in between. Even if we start a little early in the morning, the heat is increasing. During election time, this is unavoidable. However, our cadres are resolved to show that no sun can scorch us.