Suresh Gopi Faces Backlash After Refusing Elderly Man’s Plea; CPM Promises To Build Him House | Politics News

A video of Union minister and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi refusing to accept a written request from an elderly man has sparked widespread criticism, with the CPI(M) stepping in to announce that it will construct a house for the man.

In the viral video, the senior citizen, identified as Kochu Velayudhan of Thrissur, can be seen handing over a letter to the minister, seeking help to repair the collapsed roof of his dilapidated home. Gopi is heard responding that such matters are not the job of an MP, before handing back the letter without reading it. Netizens slammed the actor-turned-politician for what they called a dismissive response.

Velayudhan later said he was deeply hurt by the incident. CPI(M) leaders from Thrissur visited his residence and assured him that a new house would be built for him.

Facing mounting criticism, Gopi issued a clarification on Facebook, saying he does not make promises he cannot keep. “Housing is a state issue. Therefore, such requests cannot be approved or decided by one person alone. The state government itself should think about it. My efforts have always been focused on working within the system and delivering real benefits to the people,” he wrote.

The minister added that even though the controversy was politically motivated, he was satisfied that it ultimately resulted in a solution for the man. “People who have been watching this for the last two years have now come forward to provide a house, at least because of me. I believe that real solutions, not political games, have a place in people’s struggles,” he said.

The incident took place while Gopi was meeting constituents in Thrissur.