Vote controversy in Thrissur: ACP to probe complaint against Suresh Gopi

THRISSUR: The Thrissur Assistant Commissioner of Police will investigate allegations that Union Minister and actor Suresh Gopi illegally registered as a voter in Thrissur just before the Lok Sabha elections. The probe follows a complaint by KPCC Political Affairs Committee member T. N. Prathapan to the Thrissur City Police Commissioner.

According to the complaint, Suresh Gopi, a permanent resident of Thiruvananthapuram, secured a vote in Thrissur’s Assembly Constituency Booth No. 115 by submitting false statements, including a fraudulent affidavit. The Representation of the People Act permits only permanent residents to be enrolled in a particular booth.

Prathapan claims Suresh Gopi and his family have been long-time residents of Sasthamangalom, Thiruvananthapuram, and their names remain on the local voter list even after Suresh Gopi assumed his ministerial post. He argues this is clear evidence of misconduct.

The City Police Commissioner said legal opinion would be sought on the matter. Prathapan, accompanied by DCC President Joseph Tagget and AICC member Anil Akkara, also announced plans to approach the Election Commission of India with the complaint.