Naik asks Govinda to clarify media report

Union Petroleum Minister Ram Naik appealed to Govinda to clarify a media report about the latter's alleged "links with the underworld".

Union Petroleum Minister Ram Naik on Wednesday appealed to film star Govinda, whom Congress has pitted against the BJP leader in Mumbai north Lok Sabha seat, to clarify report in a section of media about the latter's alleged "links with the underworld".

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"I appeal to Govinda to clarify his stance in this connection", Naik told reporters referring to report in a section of media that the Bollywood actor had attended a party hosted by underworld don Dawood Ibrahim's brother, Anees at Dubai in 1989.

"The report refers to something which is a serious matter and Govinda needs to clarify it", the union minister said.

The report also referred to alleged insult to the country's national anthem at the Dubai party, attended by film stars.

"The discerning voters will have to choose between me, who played an important role in introducing Vande Mataram and the national anthem in Parliament, and Govinda, who attended a party, where "Jana Gana Mana" was insulted", Naik added.