'Not contesting elections': Sanjay Dutt denies rumors of joining politics
Sanjay Dutt has dispelled rumors suggesting his potential entry into politics. Amid speculation that he may participate in the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, Dutt clarified his position on social media on Monday. "I am not joining any party or contesting elections," he stated, urging fans to refrain from believing circulating news. Rumors of his entry gained momentum after fellow actor Kangana Ranaut's candidacy for Himachal Pradesh's Mandi was announced by BJP last month.
'I would like to put all rumors to rest': Dutt
Taking to X/Twitter, the actor said in a statement, "I would like to put all rumors about me joining politics to rest. I am not joining any party or contesting elections." He further added, "If I do decide to step into the political arena then I will be the first one to announce it. Please refrain from believing what is being circulated in the news about me as of now."
Dutt's history with political speculation
This is not the first time Dutt has addressed rumors about his political aspirations. Not long ago, in 2019, he denied claims by Maharashtra minister Mahadev Jankar that he was set to join Rashtriya Samaj Paksha—Jankar's party. Previously, Dutt was encouraged to participate in the 2009 LS election as a Samajwadi Party candidate but later withdrew from the race. Notably, he briefly served as Samajwadi Party general secretary until December 2010.
Fans applauded Dutt's decision to stay out of politics
Dutt's decision to stay away from politics has been met with positive responses. One supporter commented, "Don't join politics or any political party. You are a great actor & we want to see you as an actor always." Another fan echoed the sentiment, stating, "Please don't join politics...being your fan I request you are doing great in films please avoid the election." Notably, his sister, Priya Dutt is a politician, and so was his father, the late actor Sunil Dutt.
Dutt's upcoming film projects
Work-wise, Dutt has several exciting projects in the pipeline. His next appearance will be in the sci-fi horror comedy film The Virgin Tree, alongside Sunny Singh, Mouni Roy, and Palak Tiwari. He is also part of the ensemble cast of Ahmed Khan's Welcome To The Jungle, scheduled for release on December 20. Additionally, Dutt recently made an appearance in the Tamil action thriller Leo alongside Vijay and had a cameo in Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan last year.