Kochi: In a sharp rebuke to the Central government, the Kerala High Court has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the delay in taking a decision on establishing an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in the state. Making it clear that Kerala’s demand cannot be treated lightly, the court questioned why the proposal continues to remain pending.
The court had earlier directed the Centre to conduct a feasibility study at the site proposed by the state government. However, when the Centre sought four weeks to submit its response, the bench refused to grant such an extended period, underscoring the urgency of the matter. “Has a decision still not been taken to set up AIIMS in Kerala?” the court asked, pressing for clarity on the prolonged delay.
Instead, the High Court granted two weeks’ time and directed a representative of the Union Health Ministry to appear online and provide a clear update on the feasibility study. The court’s strong observations have intensified focus on Kerala’s long-standing demand for the premier medical institution, widely viewed as vital for enhancing the state’s healthcare infrastructure and access to advanced medical services.
