Didn’t want to be a minister; income stopped, wants to act again: Suresh Gopi

New Delhi: Union Minister and actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi has voiced his wish to resume his acting career, revealing that his income has declined since taking on his ministerial responsibilities.

Speaking at an event in Kannur, the Thrissur MP acknowledged the financial challenges he has faced since becoming a Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Tourism.

"I really want to continue acting. I need to earn more; my income has now stopped completely," said Suresh Gopi as reported by ANI.

The veteran actor-politician also suggested a possible cabinet reshuffle, recommending that Rajya Sabha MP C Sadanandan Master replace him as Union Minister.

“I have never prayed to become a minister. A day before the elections, I told reporters that I do not want to become a minister, I want to continue with my cinema,” he added.

Gopi, who joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in October 2008, mentioned that he was the youngest member in the party and the first MP elected directly by the people from his constituency. He said the party felt it necessary to appoint him as a minister.

Earlier this year, President Droupadi Murmu nominated BJP leader Sadanandan Master to the Rajya Sabha, further fueling speculation around Gopi’s comments.

During his address, Gopi also responded to criticism over his use of the word "praja" to describe the people of Thrissur. He argued that his opponents had twisted his words and pointed to evolving terminology as an example.

“Sanitation workers were once called manual scavengers, but now they are referred to as sanitation engineers. Why is using the word ‘praja’ any different?” he questioned.