The Odisha government on Wednesday suspended four officials following the deadly fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack that claimed 12 lives. At the same time, the incident sparked intense political reactions, with opposition leaders demanding the resignation of state health minister Mukesh Mahaling.
Officials Suspended After Probe Findings
The action came after a fact-finding report led by the state’s development commissioner. Based on its findings, authorities suspended deputy fire officer Prakash Kumar Jena, assistant fire officer Sanjeeb Kumar Behera, station officer Abhinab Prusti, and assistant executive engineer Ranjan Kumar Biswal.
Fire Broke Out in ICU, Patients Trapped
The fire started around 2.30 am on Monday in the trauma Intensive Care Unit (ICU). At that time, 23 patients were admitted across two rooms. Many were critically ill and asleep, which made evacuation difficult and reduced chances of survival.
Probe Reveals Major Safety Failures
A preliminary investigation exposed serious lapses in safety systems. Officials found that the automatic sprinkler system did not work because its control valve was shut. In addition, the smoke detection and fire alarm systems had been turned off for several days.
According to the probe, the fire began from two ventilator machines used to support critically ill patients.
Opposition Protests Rock Odisha Assembly
The tragedy triggered uproar in the Odisha Assembly. Members of the Biju Janata Dal disrupted proceedings during Question Hour and demanded the health minister’s resignation. Due to the protests, the Speaker had to adjourn the House twice.
BJD MLA Arun Sahoo criticised the government sharply. He alleged a “complete collapse” of the healthcare system and claimed it was in a “coma” and had now “died”. He also accused authorities of failing to fix accountability.
BJP Defends Government, Rejects Allegations
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party rejected the opposition’s claims and accused them of politicising the tragedy. BJP MLA Manas Dutta described the incident as unfortunate but pointed out that chief minister Mohan Majhi had already ordered a judicial inquiry. He also noted that the health minister had addressed the Assembly on the issue.
Opposition Leaders Demand Accountability
Earlier, opposition leader Naveen Patnaik visited the hospital and demanded the minister’s resignation. He called the incident a sign of “crumbling safety standards” and blamed administrative negligence. While he welcomed the judicial inquiry, he stressed that it does not remove responsibility from the government.
Congress leader Ramachandra Kadam also supported the demand. He said mere condolences are not enough and insisted that the government must be held accountable for ensuring patient safety.