TNI Bureau: Amid mounting outrage over the tragic fire incident at a medical college in Cuttack, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das on Monday alleged that the deaths of 12 patients were the result of “criminal negligence” by the state government.

Das, who visited the hospital to assess the situation, said preliminary observations point to serious lapses in infrastructure and safety mechanisms in the ICU where the fire broke out. He noted that the building housing the ICU was old and lacked adequate electrical systems required to support high-end medical equipment.

“The ICU operates complex machines that demand robust and continuous electrical support. However, the air-conditioning units installed were not designed for 24-hour use, leading to overheating and possibly triggering the fire,” Das told reporters.

He further alleged that there was gross negligence in maintaining fire safety protocols in such a sensitive unit. “ICUs require regular safety audits by senior Officers. Inspections should be conducted every three months, and senior Officers, including the Health Secretary or Minister, must ensure compliance,” he added.

Raising serious questions about accountability, Das demanded the immediate removal of the hospital superintendent, alleging that the Officers failed to respond or cooperate during the crisis. He also questioned the delayed response of the fire services, claiming that it took nearly 45 minutes for firefighters to reach the spot.

Calling the incident a “grave administrative failure,” Das urged the state government to suspend responsible officials and initiate criminal proceedings against those found guilty. He also demanded compensation of ₹1 crore for the families of each deceased patient.

“The absence of adequate fire safety arrangements in a premier government hospital is nothing short of a criminal act,” he said, adding that the tragedy exposes the fragile state of healthcare infrastructure despite claims of modernization.

The incident has sparked widespread concern across the state, with demands for a thorough investigation and stricter enforcement of safety standards in hospitals.