Mumbai: In an exclusive interview with Afrida Rahman Ali, Executive Editor of Free Press Journal Video, Priya Dutt—Chairperson of the Nargis Dutt Foundation and former Member of Parliament—speaks candidly about her life, political journey, and social work. She also shares her views on interfaith marriages, communal politics, and the evolving landscape of Indian politics.
“My Role as a Mother is Most Important”
Afrida Rahman Ali: You have been a social worker, an ex-MP, and a mother of two. Which role do you identify with the most?
Priya Dutt: That’s a very good question. I think my role as a mother is the most special to me. I lost my own mother at a very young age—just 13 or 14. Since then, I have made a conscious effort to instill the values she passed on to me in my own children. I want to ensure they grow up to be good human beings.
At the same time, my work with the Nargis Dutt Foundation is also very close to my heart. It is like my baby, something I have nurtured and carried forward from my father.
On Crime and Safety in Mumbai
Afrida Rahman Ali: You represented Mumbai North Central, which has been in the news for various reasons, including crime. What is your take on the recent incidents?
Priya Dutt: Bandra has always been considered one of the safest areas, home to many high-profile individuals. The murder of Baba Siddique was shocking, as we haven’t seen such incidents in decades.
Regarding crime, it is unfair to blame migrant workers alone. Mumbai has always had a large migrant population. The issue is deeper—it involves real estate, politics, and power struggles. The police are doing a commendable job, but incidents like these raise concerns that need to be addressed.
On Political Exit and Congress Leadership
Afrida Rahman Ali: You have been associated with the Congress but are no longer in active politics. Do you see yourself contesting elections again?
Priya Dutt: As of now, I have no role in the party, and I do not plan to contest elections. Politics was never a lifelong career choice for me. I gave myself a certain period to serve, but I always intended to explore other avenues.
Afrida Rahman Ali: Many Congress leaders have left the party due to lack of opportunities. Do you feel the party failed to retain talent?
Priya Dutt: It is unfortunate to see talented young leaders leaving. They joined with great ideas and enthusiasm, but when growth did not happen, they were compelled to make difficult decisions. This is a lost opportunity for the party.
The strength of any political party lies in its workers. The foundation should be strong at the grassroots level, but that has weakened over time. If the party wants to regain its strength, it must rebuild from the ground up.
On Interfaith Marriages and Anti-Conversion Laws
Afrida Rahman Ali: You come from a Hindu-Muslim marriage and are married to a Christian. In today’s scenario, where interfaith relationships are being scrutinized, how do you view these developments?
Priya Dutt: It is sad to see such issues being raised in today’s India. My parents never thought of their marriage as “interfaith.” Neither did I when I married my husband. It was always about marrying the person you love, not their religion.
The concept of “love jihad” is absurd. If there are cases of forced conversion, they should be dealt with as per the law. But to assume that every interfaith marriage is a conspiracy is unfair. Many couples today choose to retain their own faiths without converting.
On the Future of India’s Political Landscape
Afrida Rahman Ali: The current political discourse is heavily polarized. Do you think this will impact the country in the long run?
Priya Dutt: I believe India is strong enough to withstand divisive politics. We have always been a diverse and united country. However, communal hatred is dangerous and can tear us apart. It is disheartening to see these issues being used for electoral gains.
India is progressing on a global scale, and we must focus on development rather than regressing into debates that divide us. The government has done good work, but it is overshadowed by these unnecessary controversies.
Final Thoughts
Afrida Rahman Ali: Any message you would like to share?
Priya Dutt: My only hope is that we focus on nation-building and not let politics divide us. Our strength lies in unity, and that should be our priority moving forward.
