Kerala High Court Declares AIIMS in Kerala a Necessity, Orders Centre to Conduct Feasibility Study in Two Weeks
Court directs Union Health Ministry to act swiftly on Kozhikode site proposal
Judges stress that premier medical institute is vital for state’s healthcare needs
By Our Legal Correspondent
New Delhi: February 26, 2026:
The Kerala High Court has made a strong observation that establishing an All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Kerala is a necessity, not an option. The Court directed the Union Government to conduct a feasibility study within two weeks on the proposed site at Kinaloor in Kozhikode district, emphasizing that the demand for AIIMS in Kerala cannot be downplayed.
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The ruling came in response to a petition filed by AIIMS Kasaragod Janakeeya Koottayma, a public action group advocating for the institute. The bench, comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice V.M. Syam Kumar, also ordered the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to depute a competent officer to appear before the court, either physically or virtually, to ensure the matter is resolved.
Background of the Case
- Kerala has long demanded an AIIMS to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure.
- The state government had already identified Kinaloor in Kozhikode as the preferred site.
- Despite repeated requests, the Centre had not taken a final decision, leading to frustration among citizens and activists.
- The High Court intervened after petitions highlighted the urgent need for advanced medical facilities in the state.
High Court’s Observations
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- Healthcare necessity: The Court noted that Kerala’s population and healthcare demands justify the establishment of AIIMS.
- Feasibility study deadline: The Centre must complete the study within two weeks and submit a report.
- Active participation required: A senior Health Ministry official must attend the next hearing to clarify the Centre’s position.
- Not optional: The Court stressed that AIIMS in Kerala is essential, not a matter of convenience.
Why This Judgment Matters
- For Kerala’s citizens: It promises access to advanced healthcare facilities within the state.
- For governance: It puts pressure on the Centre to act decisively and avoid further delays.
- For healthcare policy: It highlights the importance of equitable distribution of premier medical institutes across India.
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Expert Views
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Healthcare experts and activists have welcomed the ruling:
- Public health specialists argue that Kerala, despite its strong healthcare system, needs AIIMS to handle complex medical cases and research.
- Legal commentators note that the Court’s intervention reflects judicial activism aimed at ensuring citizens’ right to health.
Broader Implications
- Healthcare equity: The ruling may encourage similar demands in other states lacking AIIMS.
- Policy push: The Centre may need to accelerate its plans for new AIIMS institutes nationwide.
- Public confidence: Citizens see the judiciary as a strong ally in securing healthcare rights.
Conclusion
The Kerala High Court’s directive that AIIMS in Kerala is a necessity, not optional marks a turning point in the state’s healthcare journey. By ordering the Centre to conduct a feasibility study within two weeks, the Court has ensured that the demand for advanced medical infrastructure receives urgent attention.
This ruling is expected to shape healthcare policy and strengthen the principle that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right.
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