Bhubaneswar: Intensifying its attack over the tragic fire incident at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, the opposition in Odisha on Monday submitted a joint memorandum to Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati.
The opposition parties also demanded the immediate resignation of the State health minister.
Leaders from major opposition parties, including BJD and Congress, held the government accountable for the incident, alleging serious lapses in safety measures and administrative negligence that led to the loss of 13 patients in the Trauma Care ICU fire.
The joint memorandum outlined a series of demands, including a judicial probe into the incident under the supervision of a High Court judge, immediate action against those responsible, and a comprehensive audit of fire safety systems in all government and private hospitals across the State, Odisha Congress said in a post on X.
The opposition further sought compensation of at least Rs 1 crore for each deceased patient’s family, along with a government job for one eligible member from each affected household. For the injured, free and high-quality medical treatment, along with financial assistance, was also demanded.
The memorandum submission follows a massive protest staged by multiple opposition parties near the State Assembly, where leaders condemned what they described as “inexcusable negligence” and systemic failure on the part of the government.
The issue has triggered sharp political reactions, with the opposition warning of intensified statewide agitation if their demands are not addressed promptly.
The SCB fire tragedy has also disrupted the Assembly, as opposition members continue to press for accountability and immediate corrective measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
