TNI Bureau: The functioning of SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack has once again come under scrutiny, with serious allegations emerging regarding the “protection” of Superintendent Dr. Goutam Kumar Satpathy despite recurring administrative lapses and controversies.

According to a report published by Mid-Day Odisha, questions are being raised over whether Dr. Satpathy continues to enjoy political and bureaucratic backing, even as the premier state-run hospital faces mounting criticism over infrastructure gaps, mismanagement, and accountability issues.

The report highlights a growing perception that despite repeated concerns flagged by courts, activists, and the public, no significant action has been taken against the top administration. Instead, the superintendent is allegedly being shielded, raising concerns about transparency and governance in one of Odisha’s most important healthcare institutions.

The allegations come in the backdrop of persistent issues at SCB. Official records and court observations have pointed to severe staff shortages, with as many as 87 faculty posts lying vacant, affecting patient care and hospital efficiency.

Further compounding the situation, reports have revealed that over 90 critical medical equipment, including ventilators and diagnostic systems, have been lying defunct, severely impacting treatment capabilities.

The Orissa High Court has also intervened multiple times, expressing concern over absentee doctors, poor infrastructure, and lack of accountability. It has ordered surprise inspections and stricter monitoring mechanisms to ensure discipline within the institution.

Despite these developments, the Midday Odisha report suggests that accountability at the top remains elusive. Critics argue that without fixing responsibility at the leadership level, systemic issues will continue to plague SCB, which caters to thousands of patients daily, many from economically weaker sections.

The controversy has sparked a broader debate on governance in public healthcare institutions in Odisha. Observers note that ensuring accountability, transparency, and administrative reforms is crucial, especially in institutions like SCB that serve as lifelines for the state’s population.

As pressure mounts, the focus now shifts to the state government and health department to respond decisively to these allegations and restore public confidence in the healthcare system.