Published Nov 05, 2026 | 5:40 PM ⚊ Updated Nov 05, 2026 | 5:40 PM
The Minister has called for the technical inspections and Vigilance inquiry to be completed urgently.
Synopsis: Keralam Health Minister K Muraleedharan has sought a Vigilance inquiry into alleged construction irregularities in the ₹270-crore surgical block at Government Medical College, Kottayam, following repeated ceiling collapses within months of its inauguration by the previous LDF government. The probe will examine construction defects, technical and supervisory lapses, possible financial irregularities and allegations that contractor Jatan Construction subcontracted the work to other agencies.
Keralam Health Minister K Muraleedharan has sought a Vigilance inquiry into alleged construction irregularities in the ₹270-crore surgical block at Government Medical College, Kottayam, after repeated ceiling collapses within months of its inauguration.
In a letter to Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, Muraleedharan called for a comprehensive investigation into construction defects, technical lapses, deficiencies in supervision and possible financial irregularities in the project.
He has also directed the Health Secretary to constitute a technical committee to examine the building’s structural safety and construction quality. The committee will identify defects and recommend corrective measures, including urgent interventions.
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The surgical block, inaugurated by the previous LDF government on 16 February, has witnessed multiple ceiling collapses within a few months of opening. Defects have also been reported in the civil, plumbing and electrical works, raising concerns over the safety of patients, doctors and other hospital staff.
The inquiry will examine whether the construction adhered to approved technical specifications and whether adequate quality checks and supervision were carried out.
The contract for the project was awarded to Jatan Construction. However, allegations have emerged that the company subsequently subcontracted the work to other agencies. The investigation will examine whether the subcontracting complied with the contractual conditions and whether violations or lapses occurred in the execution and supervision of the project.
It will also scrutinise the quality of construction materials and workmanship, compliance with technical standards and financial transactions associated with the project.
The Minister has called for the technical inspections and Vigilance inquiry to be completed urgently and a report submitted without delay.
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
