Controversy Unfolds Over Ambulance Misuse at Thrissur Pooram Festival

The Thrissur city police have initiated a preliminary inquiry into claims that Union Minister Suresh Gopi misused an ambulance during the Thrissur Pooram festival. The complaint alleges that the ambulance, intended for emergencies, was used for non-medical purposes. The Kerala government is conducting a three-level probe.

The Thrissur city police have launched an investigation into allegations that Union Minister Suresh Gopi misused an ambulance during the renowned Thrissur Pooram festival this April. According to a police source, this preliminary inquiry seeks to determine the merit of lodging a formal FIR concerning the incident, which transpired before the Lok Sabha elections.

The complaint, filed by a local CPI leader, accuses Gopi of arriving at the Pooram festival grounds in a Seva Bharati ambulance, which was meant for medical emergencies. It is alleged that the ambulance was used for non-medical purposes, including transporting Gopi to a restricted area, usually off-limits to vehicles. This year's festivities were reportedly disrupted by police interventions and ensuing disputes.

The Kerala government has responded by ordering a three-level probe to examine the police's role and the overall controversy that overshadowed one of India's most vibrant cultural festivals. Notably, this year's fireworks display occurred in broad daylight, a departure from tradition, leading to disappointment among attendees.

(With inputs from agencies.)