SCB fire tragedy: Triggers Political storm, Opposition Demands Resignation of HM

Bhubaneswar,19/03/2026: The Odisha Assembly witnessed massive uproar on Thursday as opposition parties intensified their demand for the resignation of health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling following the tragic fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital that claimed 13 lives on March 16. Members of both the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress seeks ‘Moral Responsibility’, BJD cites 2016 precedent & BJD Chief Whip Pramila Mallick said the Health Minister must step down on moral grounds, recalling the 2016 SUM Hospital fire incident when the then Health Minister resigned and action was taken against those responsible. She demanded the arrest of the SCB Hospital Superintendent and warned that protests would continue until the Minister resigns.
The devastating fire broke out in the ICU of the state-run SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack during the early hours of March 16, resulting in the death of 13 patients. The incident is being described as one of the deadliest hospital fires in Odisha’s history. The BJD termed the tragedy a reflection of severe negligence and a complete failure of the state’s healthcare system under the BJP government. Party leaders alleged that critical fire safety systems were non-functional in several hospital buildings despite directions from the Orissa High Court.
Delay in probe report also draws criticism. Opposition leaders also criticised the delay in the departmental inquiry report, which was supposed to be submitted within 24 hours as directed by the Chief Minister. They accused the government of failing to act swiftly even during a time of public grief.The BJD has demanded Rs 50 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased, immediate submission of the inquiry report, and strict action against all responsible officials.
At a press conference, BJD Vice President Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak questioned the appointment of the SCB Superintendent, alleging violations of National Medical Commission norms and political interference. He called for the arrest of both the Superintendent and Additional Superintendent, holding them responsible for criminal negligence.