The recent fire tragedy at SCB Medical College and Hospital has triggered massive outrage across Odisha, with serious allegations of negligence, administrative failure, and delayed emergency response emerging in its aftermath.
The incident, which claimed the lives of 13 innocent patients in the Trauma ICU, is now being described by critics not as an accident, but as a result of gross government negligence.
Compensation Criticized as ‘Inadequate Response’
The state government’s announcement of ₹25 lakh compensation to the families of the deceased has drawn sharp criticism.
Opponents argue that monetary relief cannot compensate for the loss of lives and have accused the government of attempting to silence public anger with financial aid instead of ensuring accountability.
Fire Safety Failures Exposed
Preliminary findings have revealed alarming lapses in fire safety measures within the hospital:
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The fire alarm system was non-functional days before the incident
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Initial signs of short circuit were ignored by staff
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Fire spread across three floors within just 4 minutes
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Sprinkler system failed during the emergency
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Firefighting equipment was poorly maintained and insufficient
Despite a fire station being located just 200 meters away, authorities were informed late, leading to a 15-minute delay in firefighting response.
Administrative Action Limited to Lower-Level Staff
In response to the tragedy, the government has suspended four hospital staff members. However, critics argue that this action targets only lower-level employees while senior officers remain untouched.
Questions are being raised over why SCB Director Goutam Satpathy has not faced any action so far.
Controversy Over Director’s Appointment
The appointment of SCB Medical’s Director has come under scrutiny:
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As per NMC guidelines, a superintendent should have 10 years of experience, including 5 years as a professor
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Allegedly, Gautam Satpathy has only around 1.5 years of experience
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Past allegations of irregularities during his tenure in Burla have also resurfaced
Medical students had reportedly opposed his appointment earlier, raising concerns about transparency and merit.
Comparison with 2016 SUM Hospital Fire
The incident has drawn comparisons with the 2016 SUM Hospital fire tragedy, where swift action was taken, including the arrest of the hospital superintendent.
In contrast, critics allege that in the SCB case, senior officers are being protected, raising questions about double standards in accountability.
Health Minister Faces Criticism
The role of the Health Minister has also come under fire.
Critics allege that while families of victims were grieving, the minister remained occupied with Rajya Sabha election-related political activities.
Despite the Chief Minister’s directive to submit a report within 24 hours, the investigation committee is yet to submit its findings, even after three days.
High Court Directives Ignored
It has also come to light that despite directives from the Odisha High Court, fire safety systems were not implemented in 33 buildings, including the Trauma Centre.
This has further intensified allegations of systemic negligence.
Opposition Demands Resignation and Arrests
The opposition BJD has strongly reacted to the incident.
Former Health Ministers Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak and Debi Mishra have:
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Demanded resignation of the current Health Minister
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Called for arrest of the Superintendent and Additional Superintendent on charges of criminal negligence
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Sought ₹50 lakh compensation for each victim’s family
They have also warned of statewide protests if improvements in the healthcare system are not ensured.
Conclusion
The SCB Medical fire tragedy has exposed deep cracks in Odisha’s healthcare infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
As public anger grows, the focus now remains on whether the government will ensure accountability, systemic reform, and justice for the victims, or allow the issue to fade without meaningful action.