Suresh Gopi slams State government for sabotaging Central projects in Kerala

Union Minister Suresh Gopi has launched a scathing attack on the State government, alleging a systematic effort to derail various Central development projects across Kerala. Speaking at a press conference here on Wednesday, he pointed out that the State’s uncooperative attitude has led to the loss of massive investments, including a ₹600 crore ESI Medical College project in Kollam. He described the loss as a betrayal for unorganised sector workers, calling the project their version of AIIMS and expressing deep regret over the government’s failure to secure what was already within its reach.

The Minister expressed disbelief at Health Minister Veena George’s statement that the government only became aware of the ESI Medical College issue in January. He noted that even during his tenure as a nominated MP starting in 2017, the matter was frequently brought to his attention by the public. He accused the State government of being more interested in creating a clamour for things they haven’t received rather than protecting the projects already sanctioned by the Centre.

Regarding the establishment of AIIMS in Kerala, Suresh Gopi reiterated his long-standing preference for Alappuzha, citing its dire need for development since 2016. However, he warned that if the State fails to provide suitable land according to Central norms, the project could be moved to Thrissur. He emphasised that the Centre requires at least four potential sites that meet specific guidelines, questioning why previous Kerala ministers in the UPA government failed to pursue such vital healthcare infrastructure during their tenure.

Mr. Gopi also highlighted the revival of the Guruvayur-Tirur railway line, a project originally conceived during E. Ahamed’s time as Union Minister, which was subsequently stalled. He said that the Modi government is now set to rejuvenate the project. While stressing his commitment to the overall development of Kerala, he maintained a special focus on Thrissur, criticizing the State for offering land on long-term lease in Thiruvananthapuram when the Centre specifically requested 10 to 12 acres in centrally-located Thrissur for a forensic lab.

He further revealed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to soon request 25 acres of land in Thrissur for a National Forensic Sciences University. He challenged the State government to show its sincerity by facilitating this request rather than obstructing it. The Minister asserted that AIIMS will eventually become a reality in Kerala, but the State must stop its pattern of avoidance and follow the necessary procedural guidelines to make it happen.