'Never wanted to quit films': Suresh Gopi expresses desire to step down as Union minister; names his 'successor'

NEW DELHI: Union minister and Malayalam film actor Suresh Gopi , the BJP ’s first Lok Sabha MP from Kerala , on Sunday expressed desire to step down from his ministerial post, hinting at a full-time return to cinema.

“I never wanted to be a minister by quitting my film career,” the 66-year-old former National Award winner said at a BJP event in Kannur, according to news agency PTI. He added that his income has “significantly decreased” in recent times.

Gopi, who joined the BJP in October 2016, said he believes he was made a minister in recognition of his victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. He represents the Thrissur constituency in the Lok Sabha.

The actor-politician serves as Minister of State in the Union petroleum and tourism ministries.

Gopi further remarked that he would like to see the BJP’s newly elected Rajya Sabha member, C Sadanandan Master, as his “successor” in the Union cabinet.

“I am saying here with sincerity that Sadanandan Master should be made a (Union) minister if I am removed. I believe that it will become a new chapter in the political history of Kerala,” he stated.

A former school teacher, Sadanandan Master is a senior leader of the party and serves as vice president of its state unit. He is also a survivor of political violence, having lost both his legs during an alleged attack by CPI(M) workers in 1994.