Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi on Monday said actor-turned-politician Vijay has every right to expand his party, including in Kerala. Speaking to reporters at Coimbatore airport, he said Vijay should be allowed to work and perform well, as people have given him an opportunity with expectations.
On fuel prices, Gopi said the recent hike was aimed at compensating losses incurred by public sector oil companies over the past two to three months. He added that the government’s intent is to ensure no one is adversely affected in the larger public interest, but said he could not specify how long the increase would continue.
Referring to the ongoing war situation, the minister said no one wants war and it is unclear how long it will last. He urged people not to frighten the public with claims that petrol prices could rise to Rs 150 per litre.
Gopi also said the Centre is implementing schemes that benefit farmers and the public, and that nothing is being given “free” unless it is necessary. He praised Vande Bharat trains for offering facilities comparable to those in the US.
He further said the BJP has already won three seats in Kerala and expressed confidence about future victories. He also said he had conducted reviews in Coimbatore related to petroleum product distribution and gas pipeline-laying works.
