Union Minister Piyush Goyal, a seasoned politician and current member of the Rajya Sabha, is embarking on a new journey as he contests the Lok Sabha election 2024 from the Mumbai North seat. Goyal, who has held several key portfolios in the government, including Commerce and Industry, Railways, Finance, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, and more, brings a wealth of experience to the constituency. In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Goyal expressed confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) victory in all seats in Maharashtra and shared his excitement about the opportunity to connect with the people directly as an elected representative.
Goyal, who has spent the past three decades actively involved in politics, acknowledged that this is his first time contesting a direct election. He explained that the party leadership and Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged him and other Rajya Sabha members to seek the people’s mandate, believing that this experience would deepen their understanding of ground realities and enhance their ability to serve effectively.
As an MP since 2010, Goyal has handled several important portfolios, including Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and Textiles. He is eager to take on this new role, which he sees as an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Mumbai North constituency. Goyal, who has spent his life working for the party and supporting other candidates, believes that this experience will help him become a more sensitive and responsive representative, attuned to the daily issues and concerns of the people.
Goyal is keenly aware of the issues faced by Mumbai, having lived in the city for many years. He believes that politics provides a platform to make a meaningful impact on millions of lives. During his tenure in various ministries under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Goyal has been instrumental in implementing far-reaching improvements in different areas. He is confident that his new innings as an MP will provide him with an opportunity to explore new areas and contribute to the progress of the constituency.
One of the key initiatives highlighted by Goyal is the Modi Ki Guarantee Sankalp Patra, which aims to rehabilitate slum dwellers through in-situ redevelopment projects. This initiative seeks to provide low-income families with access to quality housing. Goyal recognizes the importance of addressing the housing needs of Mumbai’s large slum population and is committed to working towards this goal.
Goyal expressed optimism about his prospects in the Mumbai North seat. He believes that Prime Minister Modi’s popularity and the BJP’s strong presence in the constituency will contribute to his success. However, he emphasized that he does not take his victory for granted and is actively engaging with the people, listening to their concerns, and seeking their support.
Goyal’s entry into the electoral fray has sparked discussions about the role of family in politics, given that his father, former Union Minister Ved Prakash Goyal, was also a member of the BJP. Goyal clarified that the BJP opposes the reservation of positions or seats based on family connections. He believes that individuals should be judged on their own merits and that his family background should not be a factor in the election.
Goyal proudly acknowledged his parents’ contributions to the country and society but emphasized that he has not received any special privileges due to his surname. He shared that his mother, a three-term MLA from Matunga, chose to retire voluntarily and did not allow him to contest in her place despite his desire to do so. Similarly, his father, who served in the Rajya Sabha until 2008, passed away the same year, and Goyal had already established himself as a respected local functionary in Mumbai. He credits his rise within the party to his hard work and dedication, not to his family connections.
Goyal’s decision to challenge Rahul Gandhi to contest against him from the Mumbai North constituency has garnered much attention. Goyal believes that Gandhi is looking for a safe seat after realizing his vulnerability in Wayanad, Amethi, and Raebareli. He expressed his hope that Gandhi would contest from multiple seats, increasing his chances of securing a seat in Parliament.
In response to concerns that financial services are being shifted away from Mumbai to the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City, Goyal dismissed such claims as propaganda. He emphasized that Mumbai remains a compelling investment destination and a powerhouse in various sectors, including trade and commerce. He highlighted the presence of the Reserve Bank of India, SEBI, the Bombay Stock Exchange, and the head offices of most banks in Mumbai.
Goyal has witnessed the growth and development of Mumbai firsthand and is confident that the city has the potential to transform into a vibrant, international-class city. He pointed to the completion of the Atal Setu, the expansion of rail infrastructure, and the construction of the coastal road as examples of the significant progress made under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Regarding the BJP’s campaign slogans, Goyal asserted that ‘Modi Ki Guarantee’ remains a powerful message. He highlighted the government’s delivery on key promises, including the construction of the Ram Mandir, the Uniform Civil Code, the Citizenship Amendment Act, the abolition of triple talaq, and the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A. He expressed confidence that the BJP will secure over 400 seats in the upcoming election.
Goyal addressed concerns raised by some voters that he may move to New Delhi after being elected, leaving local issues unattended. He dismissed such claims as baseless propaganda spread by the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT). Goyal emphasized that MPs must spend time in Delhi to fulfill their responsibilities in policymaking.
For local issues, Goyal pointed to the presence of MLAs and corporators who are responsible for addressing such matters. He highlighted the use of technology, including video conferencing and mobile connectivity, which allows for effective communication and responsiveness. Goyal assured the voters of Mumbai North that he will be deeply committed to their needs and will be available 24×7.
Goyal expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to transform Mumbai North into a truly exceptional constituency and pledged to work tirelessly for the well-being and progress of the people he represents.
