An attempt by an elderly man to approach Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi’s vehicle to submit a petition created some tense moments at Pallikkathodu in Kottayam on Wednesday. The incident took place around 9 a.m. during a ‘Kalunk Souhrida Samvadam’ (a public interaction programme) by the Minister here.
The man, identified as Shaji, a native of Pallikkathodu, rushed towards Mr. Gopi’s vehicle as the Minister was leaving the spot after winding up the talks. Mr. Shaji, who failed in his attempt to open the door of the Minister’s vehicle, subsequently stood in front of it demanding that Mr. Gopi accept the petition. Soon, the police and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers intervened, moving him aside. Though some BJP workers attempted to manhandle Mr. Shaji, other leaders stepped in to protect him.
According to the BJP leaders, the interaction programme commenced around 7.30 a.m. and concluded by 9 a.m. Mr. Shaji was also present during the discussions, but unexpectedly approached the Minister’s vehicle with a set of papers, claiming it was a petition.
Meanwhile, the BJP leaders alleged that the incident was a serious security breach and lodged a complaint with the Pallikkathodu police, calling for a thorough investigation.
Published – October 22, 2025 07:10 pm IST
