There are many reasons why I took the plunge into active politics. Politics is a great agent for change. The fact that my father was an active politician ever since my birth influenced me greatly. Political activities and happenings were a routine part of my life while I was growing up. I was politically inclined as early as 14.
It is important to have a modern outlook to problems and solutions. This is where education plays a big role. My law degree from Cambridge provided me a good foundation and gave me a better perspective to things. I got into party activities way back in 1996. Over the years, I enjoyed working on developmental and organizational projects within the party.
As for my campaign and the people I am against in this contest, I am confident about my chances. If you ask me about Jayalalitha, there is history to speak for itself. What happened in elections years 1996, 2004 and 2006 is known. And if the question is about BJP’s several alliance partners, all I can say is that BJP has an alliance with DMDK, MDMK, PMK, IJK, KNMK – is nothing but an alphabet soup.
And as far my views on Sri Lanka (SL) are concerned, I believe that Sri Lankan Tamils must be given their legitimate rights under a united SL. The present government in SL has done very little to win over the confidence of the Tamils. The reconstruction and rehabilitation post the civil war has also been woefully inadequate.
When voted in, a lot of my energies will be concentrated on the young people in my constituency. I will definitely strive to bring in more private sector investments to the constituency. I will also welcome entrepreneurs, especially projects that fill in the gaps of public services and utilities. Of course, these projects have to be financially self-sustaining.
Apart from politics, sports has been an integral part of my life. My love for tennis is well-known. I started playing tennis way back in 1980 and competed till 1995-96. I have played at the national, US Collegiate and British University level. I have also played tournaments in Asia, Europe and America.
And yes, at one point of time I wanted to be a full-time professional tennis player as well. But two knee surgeries put a end to that and I had to let go of the sport actively. I am still very closely involved in the administration and development of the sport. I am the National President of the Tenpin Bowling Federation and we are aiming for a medal in the Incheon Asian Games.
I know my surname evokes a bit of interest. My father is held in high esteem and people expect the same from me. Though he is not contesting this time, he will continue to be verty much a part of the political and public life.