Manipur actor R.K. Somendro, popularly known as Kaiku, who is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Inner Manipur parliamentary constituency as an Independent candidate, wants to prove that “one can fight and win an election without using money and muscle power.”
Speaking to The Telegraph, Kaiku said: “I have been a reel hero. Now I want to be a real hero for the people.”
The 40-year-old actor said he decided to contest the poll as people’s grievances were increasing by the day.
“I have witnessed elected leaders cheating people with false promises. So I decided to work for reformation, at least to some extent,” he added.
“Majority of the people of Manipur are poor. Benefits of various government schemes fail to reach the deserving people. As they remain poor, they agree to vote for any party in exchange of money. Corruption has increased. If people believe in free and fair elections, I am sure I will win,” the screen hero said.
Kaiku started his career in Manipuri cinema in 2003 and appeared in more than 400 films. He was also a Shumang Leela (courtyard theatre) artiste and has featured in several music videos too.
“In films, I play roles to give positive message to people and entertain them. I am contesting the election to help improve the quality of life of the weaker sections of society,” he added.
The actor added that initially, he was not interested in joining politics. “But then I started thinking of becoming a people’s representative as I could not see any positive change here,” he said.
“Streamlining border issues, safeguarding the rights of indigenous people, addressing unemployment, promoting art and culture and ensuring peace and unity will be my priorities,” Kaiku said, adding that he has no alliance with any party.
“My nearest rival is Moirangthem Nara of the CPI,” he said.
Altogether 11 candidates, including Kaiku, O. Nabakishore of the Congress and R.K. Ranjan of the BJP are contesting from the Inner Manipur parliamentary constituency. Polling for the Inner Manipur constituency will be held on April 18 where the total number of voters is 9,28,626.
For Outer Manipur parliamentary constituency, eight candidates are in the fray where the total number of voters is 1,01,0618.
