NHRC Demands Accountability After Odisha Hospital Fire Tragedy

The NHRC has urged Odisha's Chief Secretary Anu Garg to submit a report on a devastating fire at SCB Medical College Hospital, which claimed 12 lives. The incident, potentially due to an electrical short circuit, raises concerns over fire safety negligence. A high-level inquiry and compensation for victims are sought.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called upon Odisha's Chief Secretary, Anu Garg, to provide a detailed report on the tragic fire at the government-run SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, which resulted in 12 fatalities.

In response to a grievance filed by Manoj Jena, the NHRC on Monday mandated the chief secretary to submit the report within a 15-day timeframe. The fire occurred in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the trauma care centre, allegedly due to an electrical short circuit, affecting 23 patients. Of those, 12 succumbed to their injuries while four remain critically injured.

Jena has accused the hospital authorities of gross negligence and insufficient fire safety protocols, asserting that rescue operations were delayed. Additionally, he requested the commission's intervention for a comprehensive inquiry and punitive action, alongside financial compensation for the victims. The NHRC acknowledged the gravity of the allegations, highlighting serious human rights violations.

(With inputs from agencies.)