'PM Modi's special envoy and MoS Suresh Gopi contacted me'; Football legend IM Vijayan clears air over contesting assembly elections

KOCHI: Indian football legend I.M. Vijayan cleared the air over rumours that he would contest in the upcoming assembly elections. Vijayan intervened to end all debates at a time when discussions were rife from various quarters about his entry into active politics. Vijayan, though, expressed his wish to take up the post if nominated to the Rajya Sabha, but made it certain that he would not contest any elections nor represent any party.

IM Vijayan revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special envoy had personally spoken to him, inviting him to enter politics. He also stated that actor and Union Minister Suresh Gopi had also spoken to him over the phone about the matter.

“I have close ties with all three major fronts. So I have limitations to be part of only one particular party. I want to become an MP like PT Usha. I will accept any party seat. But it should be in the name of sports. I will not stand for just one party. I need love from all.” Said IM Vijayan.