Kerala Police File Case Against Union Minister Suresh Gopi for Alleged Ambulance Misuse at Thrissur Pooram

The Kerala Police have filed a case against Union Minister and BJP Lok Sabha candidate Suresh Gopi, alleging that he misused an ambulance to reach the Thrissur Pooram festival site. This vibrant and historic temple festival, held annually in Kerala, draws thousands of attendees and has become a focal point in the state’s political landscape.

The case against Gopi, which cites violations of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Motor Vehicles Act, comes amid reports that the Thrissur Pooram festivities were disrupted on the same day he allegedly utilized the ambulance. Opposition parties have accused the BJP of deliberately causing this disruption to bolster Gopi’s campaign in the Thrissur constituency, where he is vying for a Lok Sabha seat. In response to these allegations, local authorities have launched a thorough investigation to examine claims of intentional interference with the festival.

Initially, Gopi denied the allegations, asserting that he had arrived at the event in a private vehicle. He dismissed the claims as unfounded, stating, “If someone claims they saw me in an ambulance, they need to clarify whether it was a real sight or an illusion.” Gopi further called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry, expressing skepticism about the fairness of the state-led investigation under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s administration. He emphasized that a CBI probe is essential to uncover the “true narrative” regarding the allegations.

In a later statement, however, Gopi admitted to using an ambulance to access the Pooram site, citing urgent circumstances as the reason. He explained that his vehicle was attacked while en route, causing injuries to his legs that required medical attention. This admission has fueled further debate, with opposition leaders questioning the credibility of his shifting narrative and the political implications of his actions.

As investigations continue, the incident underscores the complex relationship between politics and cultural celebrations in Kerala. The state is closely monitoring the unfolding situation, eager for further clarifications regarding the allegations of political influence over the revered Thrissur Pooram festivities.