New Delhi: Television's favourite 'bahu' Smriti Z Iraani, who has been fielded by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Chandni Chowk Parliamentary constituency in New Delhi, today (Apr 19, 2004) lambasted her detractors for labelling her an "outsider", saying she had spent most of her life in the capital.

"I was born in Delhi and spent 22 years of my life here, so where is the question of my being an outsider?" the 28-year-old, who plays the role of 'Tulsi' in serial 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi', told reporters at a crowded press conference.

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Now based in Mumbai, Iraani promised to shift permanently to Delhi if elected to the Lok Sabha.

"I will move permanently to Delhi after I am elected and will be among the most regular attenders of Parliament," she said.

Iraani, who joined BJP a few months back and was made its Maharashtra youth wing vice president, said she felt "proud" that the party had considered her capable of taking on Congress stalwart Kapil Sibal.

"It was a moment of pride for me when I was informed that I had been given the ticket," she said.

The star 'bahu' said she was campaigning in Maharashtra when she heard about the nomination and was "not entirely surprised".

Iraani said her star-image would not prove to be a burden and instead give her an added advantage.

"I am hardworking and sincere and since I speak with conviction, people will definitely believe me," she said, adding the youth would be the special focus of her campaign.

Iraani said she would give priority to the problem of congestion in Chandni Chowk if elected.

"I will get residents and traders to sit together and the solutions they come up with will be binding on bureaucrats."

Union Minister Vijay Goel, who won from Chandni Chowk in 1998 and 1999 and will be contesting from Delhi Sadar this time, was also present at the press conference.

He later said Iraani had his full support.

"No seat is permanently meant for anyone," he said.