TNI Bureau: In a significant political and legal development following the devastating fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has filed a First Information Report (FIR) at Mangalabag Police Station against Health & Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling and former SCB Superintendent Dr. Gautam Satapathy.

The FIR alleges gross criminal negligence on the part of both individuals in connection with the tragic incident, which claimed the lives of 13 patients and left several others severely injured. The fire, which broke out within the hospital premises, has raised serious concerns about safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and administrative accountability in one of Odisha’s premier healthcare institutions.

According to the complaint, the alleged negligence not only resulted in the loss of innocent lives but also caused significant damage to public property. The BJD has demanded immediate arrest of the accused, asserting that accountability must be fixed at the highest levels to ensure justice for the victims and their families.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage across the state, with questions being raised over lapses in fire safety measures and the overall management of hospital infrastructure. As investigations begin, all eyes are now on the administration and law enforcement agencies to take swift and transparent action. Further updates are awaited as the case progresses.