In a significant development regarding the establishment of an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Kerala, the High Court has issued a directive to the central government. The court has ordered the central authorities to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study in coordination with the state government concerning the proposed site at Kinaloor in Kozhikode.
Interim Order Issued by High Court Bench
A bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice V M Syam Kumar delivered this interim order while hearing a petition filed by AIIMS Kasaragod Janakeeya Koottayma. This public action group has been actively advocating for the establishment of the proposed AIIMS facility within Kasaragod district.
State Government's Counter Affidavit Noted
The High Court took particular note of the state government's counter affidavit submitted in May 2025, which officially named Kinaloor as the proposed site for the AIIMS institution. Based on this submission, the court observed that it has now become incumbent upon the central government to communicate its final decision regarding the precise location for this prestigious medical institute.
Central Government's Response and Adjournment
During the proceedings, senior counsel representing the central government informed the court that he had not yet received specific instructions on the matter. He subsequently sought additional time to place a written communication on record regarding the government's position.
In response to this request, the High Court has adjourned the petition to February 25, allowing the central government adequate time to prepare and submit its formal response. This adjournment provides both parties with an opportunity to gather necessary documentation and present their cases more comprehensively.
Specific Directions Regarding Site Selection Guidelines
The High Court further issued specific directions concerning the site selection process. The court mandated that the affidavit to be submitted by the central government must clearly indicate whether the selection of the Kinaloor site conforms to the official guidelines issued by the Government of India.
These guidelines specifically govern the selection of sites and locations for establishing AIIMS institutions within the state of Kerala. This requirement ensures that the site selection process adheres to established national standards and protocols for such prestigious medical institutions.
Broader Implications for Healthcare Infrastructure
This judicial intervention represents a crucial step forward in the long-standing efforts to establish an AIIMS facility in Kerala. The feasibility study ordered by the court will examine various critical factors including infrastructure requirements, accessibility, environmental considerations, and regional healthcare needs.
The establishment of an AIIMS in Kerala would significantly enhance the state's tertiary healthcare capabilities, providing advanced medical education, research opportunities, and specialized treatment facilities for residents across the region. The court's directive ensures that proper due diligence will be conducted before finalizing this important healthcare infrastructure decision.
