New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh Governor and former Union Minsiter Ram Naik has said that actor Govinda took Underworld don Dawood Ibrahim's help to defeat him in 2004 Lok sabha elections which they contested from Virar constituency.
Naik made the allegations in his recently released memoir Chaireveti, Chaireveti (Keep Moving). Written in Marathi, the book chronicles his political career and life.
The former minister wrote that despite being a three time MP and his dedication for his constituency, it was difficult for him to accept his defeat with a margin of over 11000.
The 82 year old also wrote that Govinda was friends with Dawood and Hiten Thakur(builder) and he (Govinda) used them to terrorise voters.
In an interview with Times of India, Naik said, I have no hesitation in saying that Govinda had links with Dawood and Thakur. They used their power in the elections and then then its verdict went against me.
The actor, however, has categorically denied all charges.
"I did not need anyone's support at that time. By saying such things, does Ram Naik mean that the people of the constituency were sold into the hands of the underworld? Please do not insult anyone by saying such things," Govinda told Times of India.
He also appealed Naik not to insinuate his name at a time when he is working hard to resurrect his career.
'At this juncture, when I am coming back into films, I humbly request Ram Naik not to damage my name and create hurdles in my work," he said.
In his memoir, Naik also mentioned that a TV channel also worked against him during the polls. "During the entire election, the channel would show only Govinda's films to add to his campaign," he said.
Meanwhile, Maharshtra government today said, if needed we will launch probe into the matter.
