Union Minister Suresh Gopi has again sought to distance himself from earlier remarks about establishing an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Thrissur, saying he never promised the premier medical institution during his election campaign. His latest comments have revived questions over his previous statements and the prospects of an AIIMS project in the district.

Responding to questions about his earlier remarks, Gopi said he had not mentioned AIIMS even once during any election campaign. He maintained that his speeches could be examined to verify his position. His statement comes after previous comments concerning the proposed medical institution had created expectations and prompted questions about whether Thrissur would eventually be selected for the project.

Gopi has also maintained that the Kerala government needs to take the initiative regarding the establishment of AIIMS in the State. His latest position places emphasis on the State government’s role in moving the proposal forward, rather than suggesting that the project was an electoral commitment made by him. The issue has remained politically significant because Kerala has long sought an AIIMS-level institution.

Also Read: Shashi Tharoor Calls Findings On Kerala’s Saudi Returnees And Conservative Values ‘Disturbing’

The minister’s latest remarks have drawn attention because they appear to differ from the impression created by some of his earlier comments on the subject. The repeated clarification has led to renewed scrutiny of what was actually stated during the election period and whether voters in Thrissur were given any assurance about the institution. Gopi, however, has insisted that he did not make such a promise during his campaign.

The AIIMS issue has broader significance for Kerala because the State has been seeking a major centrally supported medical institution to expand access to advanced healthcare, medical education and specialised treatment. Several locations have been discussed over the years, with the question of the final site remaining a matter of political and administrative debate. Any decision would require coordination between the Centre and the Kerala government.

For now, Gopi’s latest statement makes clear that he does not consider the establishment of AIIMS in Thrissur an election promise made by him. He has instead stressed the need for the Kerala government to initiate the process. The renewed controversy is likely to keep the focus on both governments over their respective roles in pursuing the long-pending demand for an AIIMS in Kerala.

Also Read: DYFI Activists Scale Wall to Enter Palakkad DRM Office Compound