Cong., CPI(M), CPI attack Suresh Gopi over promise to set up AIIMS

The Centre’s submission before the Kerala High Court that Keralam is not currently a priority for setting up an AIIMS has triggered a fresh political storm in the State, with the Congress, CPI(M) and CPI sharply criticising the Union Minister and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi’s repeated assurances on the project.

The Centre told the High Court on Wednesday that it was prioritising States with weaker healthcare systems, while Keralam was comparatively better placed. It also said no in-principle approval had been granted for an AIIMS in the State and that the proposal had not figured in any Union Budget announcement.

Responding to the Centre’s rationale, Thrissur District Congress Committee president Joseph Tajet said the Centre’s stand had exposed the gap between the Union government’s position and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi’s repeated assurances.