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

Opposition parties in Kerala are criticizing Union Minister Suresh Gopi after the Centre informed the High Court that an AIIMS hospital is not a priority for the state. The criticism centers on Gopi's repeated campaign promises to bring the facility to Thrissur, which the opposition claims were misleading.
Why it matters
Illustrates the tension between local political promises and federal administrative priorities in India's healthcare infrastructure development.
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.
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