Suresh Gopi offers to resign 'temporarily' to lead transgender rights protest

Thiruvananthapuram: Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi on Saturday announced that he is ready to resign from his ministerial post for two days to lead a protest supporting the transgender community, if the Pinarayi Vijayan government fails to deliver on its promise of financial assistance.

Gopi made the statement during an Onam celebration with members of the transgender community in Thiruvananthapuram. “If the state government does not extend support, a ‘Karuvannur model’ agitation will be launched before next year’s Onam,” he said.

The event featured the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, cultural performances, and the honoring of transgender individuals excelling in various fields. Onakkodi (new clothes for Onam) and Onasadya (Onam feast) were distributed, with Gopi participating in the festivities.

“Supporting the transgender community is nothing short of a divine blessing. The state government must provide the promised financial aid. I will also personally fund surgeries for ten more transgender persons. I will always stand with them. If the government refuses to act, I will resign for two days to lead the protest and resume my ministerial duties afterward,” Gopi added.

The actor-turned-politician’s statement highlights concerns over delays in state assistance for transgender persons, many of whom rely on government schemes for healthcare and rehabilitation. Activists have welcomed Gopi’s gesture as a rare show of solidarity from a Union minister.

Gopi has previously supported the community by depositing Rs 12 lakh at Amrita Hospital for gender reassignment surgeries, of which ten surgeries have already been successfully completed.

With IANS inputs