‘That I am a don’s daughter will get me more votes’

You are known as ‘Daddy’s’ daughter. This projected image of daughter of an underworld name, will it be a boon or bane for you?
That image has been there for years, but despite that I have been elected as a corporator twice. In fact, I am fortunate I am his daughter because he has done a lot of work in this constituency. I am carrying it forward now. Because of his image, people know me and also know that my father will help everyone with any work they have. (smiles) The fact that I am a don’s daughter will not pose a problem in this election, it will get me more votes.

What are the lessons learnt following 2009 elections in which ABS lost to Congress’ Madhu Chavan?
That time the situation was different. My father had got arrested and our office remained shut for a brief period. Our connection with the local people was lost. Now to reach out to those 2.5 lakh people in Byculla, I am doing door-to-door campaigning. I am not tackling a particular community like Muslim or Marathis even though there is 30-35 per cent Muslim concentration. Everyone is equal to me and this time I will work for all communities to increase vote share.

What are the issues you are going to focus on?
I am not specifically focusing on any issue. I will take up issues as and when I am told about it. Daddy has done a lot of work already. But in the last five years our party has lost touch. So I will try to fill that gap. Our manifesto however focuses on women safety, health and sanitation.

You are currently public health committee chairman. If you become MLA, what will you work on?
I have inducted over 2,000 health workers since 2010 in the civic body. My work in health was focused on malaria and dengue control too. If I become the MLA, I will sensitise people on health and hygiene. Residents throw garbage on roads which keeps piling up. I will mobilize private players in waste management because BMC is already understaffed and cannot keep a check in the entire city daily. May be I will involve NGOs in this work. Sanitation practices must be taught to locals too.

How do you look at politics as you are the only woman candidate in this constituency?
Yes, it has been 40 years here since a woman candidate has been nominated by a party. With so much propaganda on women power, I am hopeful I will create a separate space. Voters have already given a chance to male candidates, now they should try a female candidate. I also want women voters to come out and vote. Currently, while there is significant women population, the turnout is less.