Gavits are the true tribal leaders of Nandurbar, our work speaks for itself: Vijay Kumar Gavit

What is the current political scenario in Nandurbar where Congress leaders, Sonia Gandhi, had held first big rally?
Too many factors will decide the outcome. So most candidates in our district are not sure of their victory with majority. It's going to neck-and-neck competition and margin will be wafer thin. Until a month ago, a couple of legislators were seen as clear winners, but they are now trailing in campaign. Some of them may even end up losing their deposit. However, I am confident of victory for the fifth time because of my work. I have changed the face of Nandurbar district and people's blessings are with me.

What have you done for Nandurbar constituency?
We constructed more than 15 small and big dams. With better irrigation facilities, farmers are no longer dependent on monsoon only, they are growing cash crops like cotton. Besides, bridges and road network to tribal areas have become better. With this improved connectivity, we can reach health and other services to the public more effectively. Moreover, I improved the water supply network. Earlier, women used to walk a couple of kilometres to get water from wells or borewells. Now, they can just turn on the tap in their homes.

Your daughter Heena is a BJP MP, your two brothers are also in fray on NCP tickets in Nawapur and Shahada, while your brother-in-law is contesting in Chopada on a BJP ticket. How do you manage to keep everything in your family.

I don't need to manage anything. People vote for us for our hard work, irrespective of parties and symbols. Before us, there were many so-called tribal leaders, but they couldn't even provide basic amenities. Without genuine work, people will reject us. The Gavits are not promoting dynastic politics, they are the true face of change in this tribal belt.

Do you go out to other constituencies in Nandurbar to campaign for BJP candidates who are pitched against your brother?
No, I don't go out of my constituency to campaign for other other BJP nominees. When I was inducted into BJP, I had categorically told the senior leaders that I would not campaign against my brothers and relatives. I will only concentrate on my locality.

Do you face problems in the family with members embracing different ideologies and contesting on different symbols?

Not at all. We all Gavit brothers assemble regularly for festivals and various family functions. We may belong to different parties, but we don't let it come between our personal relations.

Do you still have the NCP culture in you?
I do, but I am married to a new party. So I am working for it honestly. I had good relationship with Sharad Pawar saheb. They should not have expelled me just because my daughter (Heena) wanted to contest on a BJP ticket. It was a hasty decision.

Are you happy with the BJP now?
Differences will be there in any party. Now that I am with the BJP, I will for work them. I had asked them to pay heed to my suggestions while distributing tickets, but they went on their own. I am new so won't say much.

Are you facing difficulties to convince your voters about your new symbol?
To some extent as there is very little time for the campaign. Most of them still think I am with the NCP. However, we will try to reach every household in next few days and ensure that the lotus blooms in Nandurbar as well.