New Delhi, Feb. 2 -- Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, sparked controversy during a BJP election campaign in New Delhi by asserting that the "upper castes" should oversee the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to ensure genuine progress in tribal welfare. Speaking at the event, Gopi claimed that leadership from upper-caste members, such as Brahmins or Naidus, is essential for addressing the issues faced by tribal communities. The Union Minister, however, retracted the statement later, after facing backlash.

"It's a curse of our country that only a person from the tribal community can be made the minister for tribal affairs," said BJP leader Suresh Gopi, who also holds the Tourism portfolio.

"It is my dream and ...