New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 2 (PTI): Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi found himself at the center of a political storm on Sunday after suggesting that "upper caste" leaders should be given charge of the Tribal Affairs Ministry. His remarks, made during a BJP election campaign event in New Delhi, quickly ignited a wave of criticism across Kerala and beyond.
The actor-turned-politician stated that true progress in tribal welfare would be achieved only if leaders from "upper castes" helmed the ministry. However, as backlash mounted, he retracted his statement, claiming his words were intended to eliminate discrimination rather than reinforce it.
Gopi's Controversial Remarks & Later Clarification
Addressing the gathering, Gopi described it as a “curse of our country” that only tribal leaders are appointed as Tribal Affairs Ministers. Expressing his vision for a systemic change, he suggested that Brahmins or Naidus could bring "significant change" to tribal welfare. Conversely, he also advocated for tribal leaders to manage portfolios concerning forward communities, indicating a broader redistribution of responsibilities within the government."If my comment is not well received or if my explanation does not satisfy people, I withdraw my remarks," Gopi later clarified, emphasizing that his intent was to break traditional constraints rather than reinforce caste hierarchies.
"I did not label anyone as good or bad; my only aim was to break free from this framework," he added, reiterating his commitment to tribal welfare.
Push for Tribal Affairs Ministry & Political Fallout
Gopi, who also serves as Minister of State for Tourism, revealed that he had requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assign him the Tribal Affairs portfolio, but noted that "certain precedents" influenced portfolio allocations.His remarks, however, were met with strong opposition, particularly in Kerala, where political leaders and tribal representatives condemned his views.
Opposition Demands Resignation
CPI State Secretary Benoy Viswam launched a scathing attack on Gopi, branding him a "piper of the chaturvarna" (caste system). He called for Gopi’s immediate removal from the Union Cabinet, asserting that such statements undermine the Indian Constitution under the RSS-led BJP government.Adding to the political turbulence, Viswam also demanded the resignation of Union Minister of State George Kurian for allegedly disrespecting federal principles and insulting Kerala. Kurian had earlier remarked that Kerala should declare itself backward in education, infrastructure, and social welfare to secure additional central funds.
"These two ministers represent the challenges facing India's constitutional values under BJP rule," Viswam stated, urging the President of India to intervene. He also demanded that the BJP clarify its stance on these "anti-tribal and anti-Kerala" statements.
Tribal Leader C K Janu Slams Gopi’s Statement
Prominent tribal leader C K Janu also lambasted Gopi's comments, calling them "low-class" and reflective of his poor understanding of tribal issues.Currently, the Tribal Affairs Ministry is headed by Jual Oram, a senior BJP leader from Odisha and a well-known tribal face in Indian politics.
With elections approaching, Gopi's remarks have stirred a political firestorm, putting the BJP on the defensive as it seeks to retain support among tribal communities and voters in Kerala.
