Tamil Nadu Elections 2016: Meet the independent candidate who has met nearly all his constituents

Raja Krishnamoorthy alias Kitty wants to spark a positive change and transform Velachery by contesting as an independent candidate in the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections. An actor, motivational speaker, management consultant and passionate social activist, his varied skills are sure to have helped him during his campaign largest voter base in the city. Sporting a backpack and clicking selfies with voters, the Baasha actor is working towards a better tomorrow and has caught the attention of young voters. In the past, he has been a key player in the India Against corruption (IAC) movement in Tamil Nadu, giving a strong call for the fight against corruption. In fact, Raja shared the platform with Anna Hazare and other senior leaders during their visit to the city.

In an exclusive chat with dna, Raja talks about why he chose to contest and what he hopes to achieve. 

What prompted you to contest as an independent amidst the big wigs (AIADMK and DMK)?

The thought of bringing a change has been brewing for a long time. In 2014, I was even offered a chance to contest in the Parliamentary elections by the Aam Aadmi Party, but I declined the offer. I think the assembly election was the right moment for me. Alternative politics is required at this juncture and people are looking for it. For instance, during the Chennai floods, many youths in the city took up rescue measures themselves. Alterative politics will instil change among the voters in the society. Spreading this message will definitely bring social transformation as well as living positively. 

How do you think you have an edge over other regional parties?

Most of my election agenda is practical and sensible. Politics through good governance and politics for a good society has been my theme since the beginning of elections. The transformation agenda has caught people from all walks of life and they have received me with great positivity. I don’t think any other candidate would have reached each of the voters individually and the reception for me has been exuberant. I see people welcoming me and encouraging me right from the beginning of the campaign and that has motivated me till now. 

With your transformational agenda including several civic issues, how are you planning to achieve it by contesting as an independent?

I am here for a corruption-free, transparent and transformational leadership. There are several good officers in the system, which I found out during my various development activities for South Chennai. All the parties claim they are here to bring about development. I am ready to suggest ideas to them and bring them in to change my constituency. If I am unable to act on my promises, I am ready to apologise to my voters and even quit. 

What is going to be the key agenda in your action for transformation?

A 24×7 direct constituency helpline to register complaints, access departments and request support for forming locality/ward-wise representative bodies and democratically chosen members to create “MLA Advisory Committee”. We’ll hold regular grievance camps to file complaints with a promise of timely redress and monthly public hearings. We’ll create a platform for face-to-face interaction with the MLA and government officials from all departments to address constituency issues and grievances.