Sat Mar 01 09:07:07 UTC 2025: ## Union Minister Suresh Gopi Acknowledges Cinema’s Potential Role in Societal Violence
**Thiruvananthapuram, March 1, 2025** – Union Minister of State for Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Tourism, Suresh Gopi, conceded today that while cinema might play a role in societal violence, it cannot be solely blamed as the source. Responding to recent criticism linking Malayalam action films to increased violence, particularly among youth, Mr. Gopi, himself a prominent actor, stated that audiences need to engage with films critically, understanding the presented actions rather than simply consuming them as entertainment.
Mr. Gopi’s comments follow statements made earlier this week by senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, who criticized films like *RDX* and *Marco* for allegedly promoting violent behavior. While acknowledging the depiction of violence in films, the Minister emphasized the importance of viewers recognizing that such depictions are not endorsements of real-life violence and should serve as a cautionary lesson. He urged audiences to “understand the film, not just see it.”
Beyond cinema, Mr. Gopi also highlighted the importance of nurturing children’s physical and mental well-being. He emphasized the collective responsibility of families, political parties, the government, and citizens in ensuring that every child reaches their full potential, referencing the recent tragic death of a schoolboy in a student clash in Kozhikode. He stated that “each child is born into the family called nation. None of them should be lost.”
First Piper 