Kerala Health Minister K. Muraleedharan pledged full implementation of the 2017 Mental Health Care Act. Immediate steps will be taken to transform state mental health institutions into patient‑friendly facilities.

Key Takeaways

  • Judicial panel raised serious concerns over the centre's conditions.
  • Staff and security shortages restrict patient freedom.
  • Government promises swift staffing and rehabilitation measures.

Judicial Inspection Findings

Justices Devan Ramachandran and Basant Balaji of the Kerala High Court inspected the Mental Health Centre (MHC) in Peroorkada on July 18. Their report described a 31‑acre campus operating like a prison, with patients confined to cells and no recreational spaces despite ample open land.

Acute Staffing Shortages

The judges noted a crippling shortage of security personnel and Grade‑IV staff—attenders, cooks, drivers, and laundry workers. Only 127 attenders are on duty against a sanctioned strength of 158, and 13 cook‑laundry posts have been eliminated over the years.

Government Assurance

Following the court’s directives, Health Minister K. Muraleedharan announced on July 26 that the vacant posts will be filled and open‑air facilities will be created so patients can venture outside under attendant supervision. He reaffirmed that the 2017 Mental Health Care Act will be implemented “in letter and spirit.”

Future Development Plans

The state will revive the master plan for the MHC, complete two buildings that have stalled for 22 years, repair internal roads, and finish the compound wall. Additionally, rehabilitation initiatives will be launched for the 55 inmates deemed fit for discharge but lacking alternative placement.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that strengthening mental health infrastructure not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces societal costs associated with untreated mental illnesses.

"Respecting human rights is non‑negotiable in mental health care."
Did You Know?: India’s mental health facilities suffer an average staff shortfall of over 30%.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the centre still operating like a prison? Reforms are underway, but full transformation may take several months.

When will the unfinished buildings be completed? The government has pledged completion within the next 12 months.