Kozhikode: Malayalam actor and BJP leader Suresh Gopi found himself in hot water after a video circulated on social media showed him placing his hand on the shoulder of a woman journalist during a media interaction in Kozhikode, Kerala. The incident led to accusations of misbehavior, prompting the Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) to threaten legal action against him.
In the video, Gopi can be seen keeping his hand on the journalist’s shoulder as she asks him a question. Despite her attempts to step back, Gopi’s hand remains on her shoulder until she removes it. The KUWJ demanded an apology and stated their intention to file a case with the women’s commission, along with other legal actions.
Responding to the controversy, Gopi issued an apology on his Facebook page. He clarified that his gesture was intended to show affection, but he respected the journalist’s feelings. He apologized if she felt uncomfortable or distressed in any way.
Suresh Gopi, a former Rajya Sabha MP, is expected to be the BJP candidate from the Thrissur constituency in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Despite unsuccessful attempts in previous elections, he remains determined to secure a victory for his party in Thrissur.