Kerala MPs demand sacking of Union ministers Kurian, Gopi for making 'controversial' remarks

New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – A political storm erupted on Monday as Members of Parliament (MPs) from Kerala demanded the removal of Union ministers Suresh Gopi and George Kurian over their controversial statements, which have drawn widespread criticism.

Suresh Gopi, the Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, found himself in hot water after his remarks on Sunday suggesting that the tribal affairs ministry should be overseen by individuals from "upper castes." Speaking at a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) poll rally, the actor-turned-politician asserted that real progress in tribal welfare would be achieved only if leaders from "upper castes" managed the portfolio. However, following backlash, Gopi retracted his statement, claiming his words were made with good intentions.

Adding to the controversy, George Kurian, the Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Minority Affairs, stated on Saturday that Kerala should declare itself a "backward state" in education, infrastructure, and social welfare to secure more central funds.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) MP John Brittas slammed both ministers, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modito take strict action against them.

"The two ministers have made atrocious comments that go against constitutional morality. One suggests that tribal affairs should be handled by an upper-caste minister, while the other says Kerala should declare itself backward for central assistance. I hope the prime minister takes note and initiates action," Brittas told PTI in the Parliament complex.

Click to expand...

Echoing similar sentiments, CPI MP P Sandosh Kumar called Kurian’s statement "strange" and reflective of the BJP's stance towards Kerala.

"The BJP-led Union Budget ignored Kerala. We deserve our fair share. If a disaster like the Wayanad landslide had occurred elsewhere, the Centre would have announced a relief package. This is an insult to Kerala," Kumar remarked, demanding Kurian's resignation.

Click to expand...

On Gopi’s remarks, Kumar further stated,

"Suresh Gopi has a history of making casteist comments. As a Union minister, this is a gross violation of constitutional principles. The BJP leadership must take serious note of this."

Click to expand...

Congress MP Hibi Eden, representing Ernakulam in the Lok Sabha, also condemned the statements, saying they were offensive to tribal and Scheduled Caste (SC) communities.

"The Constitution ensures rights for tribal and SC communities. The fact that the only BJP Lok Sabha MP from Kerala says a person from an upper caste should lead tribal affairs is unacceptable and against morality," he said.

Click to expand...

Criticizing Kurian, Eden added,

"Kerala has made remarkable progress in health and education, yet a Union minister undermines the state. His comments are completely unjustified, and we strongly condemn them."

Click to expand...

The opposition has now intensified its demand for the immediate removal of both ministers, asserting that Kerala’s interests must be safeguarded against such remarks.