Kottayam Medical College surgical block investigation sought

Kerala Health Minister K. Muraleedharan has requested a Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) investigation into alleged irregularities regarding the construction of a 270 crore rupee surgical block at Kottayam Government Medical College.

The request, sent to Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, seeks to probe alleged technical defects, lapses in execution and supervision, and potential financial wrongdoing. The new surgical block, which was inaugurated in February 2026 by the previous government, has reportedly experienced several ceiling collapses within months of opening.

In addition to the ceiling issues, serious defects have been reported in the plumbing, electrical, and civil works. The Minister has directed the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department to form a technical committee to assess the structural safety of the building, identify defects, and recommend urgent corrective measures.