The SCB Medical College and Hospital fire incident that claimed at least 10 lives and left 11 others injured has prompted swift action from the Government of Odisha, which has now ordered a judicial inquiry to uncover the causes and fix accountability.
Judicial Inquiry Panel Formed, Report in 60 Days
In a major development, the state government has appointed retired district judge Laxmidhar Biswal to head the probe into the devastating ICU fire. According to an official notification issued by the Home Department, the commission has been directed to submit its findings within 60 days.
The inquiry panel will be headquartered in Cuttack, though it has the flexibility to conduct proceedings at other locations if required.
Probe to Examine Sequence of Events and Accountability
The commission has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive investigation into the sequence of events that led to the fire at the Trauma Care ICU. It will also assess the roles and responsibilities of hospital authorities, staff, and other concerned individuals.
Additionally, the panel will evaluate the hospital’s emergency preparedness, the effectiveness of the response during and after the incident, and recommend measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
According to officials, there were 23 patients admitted across the Trauma Care ICU and adjoining wards at the time of the incident. Seven patients died in the fire, while three others succumbed to burns or suffocation during evacuation.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who visited the site shortly after the incident, stated that around 11 hospital staff members sustained burn injuries while attempting to rescue patients.
Government Assures Strict Action
Emphasising the seriousness of the incident, the government said the judicial probe is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the matter.
The Chief Minister also directed the Director General of Fire Services to personally inspect the hospital and ensure compliance with fire safety norms.
“If anyone is found guilty in the incident after the judicial probe, strong action will be taken,” Majhi said, as quoted in reports.
