Tragic Fire at Cuttack Hospital Claims Lives: President Murmu Expresses Condolences

A devastating fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, has resulted in the loss of at least ten lives, prompting President Droupadi Murmu to express her condolences. The Chief Minister has announced compensation for the victims' families and ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident. The fire, believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, raised serious concerns about hospital safety protocols. As investigations unfold, the government is taking steps to enhance fire safety measures across hospitals in the state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 16, 2026, 11:02 IST

Heartfelt Condolences from the President

New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: On Monday, Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, conveyed her profound sorrow regarding the tragic fire incident at a hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, which resulted in multiple fatalities. She extended her sincere condolences to the families affected by this calamity.

The fire broke out early Monday morning in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the trauma care center at SCB Medical College and Hospital. Reports indicate that at least ten patients lost their lives, with several others suffering from severe burn injuries.

Expressing her grief on the social media platform X, the President stated her condolences and wished for a swift recovery for the injured.

The inferno reportedly started between 2:30 AM and 3 AM, likely due to an electrical short circuit.

Following a visit to the hospital to meet with the injured, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh for each family of the deceased patients.

He also ordered a judicial investigation into the incident and promised strict action against anyone found negligent in their duties that contributed to the fire.

In a statement to the media, CM Majhi explained, “A significant fire erupted in the trauma care unit of SCB Medical College and Hospital due to a suspected short circuit. Patients in the Trauma Care ICU and an adjacent ward were affected.”

He added, “During the evacuation, 23 patients were moved to safer areas. Unfortunately, seven critically ill patients died during this process, and three more passed away after being relocated to other ICUs. This is indeed tragic.”

Majhi expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured. He instructed the Health Department to provide advanced treatment for those with serious injuries currently in other wards.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the bravery of 11 hospital staff members, including security personnel, who risked their lives to assist in the evacuation. Many of them were injured due to smoke inhalation and flames but are now stable and receiving treatment.

“Since our government took office, I have previously directed the department to assess and enhance fire safety measures in all hospitals statewide. In the current budget for 2025–26, we have allocated Rs 320 crore for improving fire safety, and this work is being prioritized.”

“For the next financial year 2026–27, an additional Rs 400 crore has been earmarked for this initiative,” the Chief Minister stated.

He instructed all departmental officials to ensure the installation of advanced fire suppression systems in hospitals across the state.

“I have directed the Director General of the Odisha Fire and Emergency Services, Sudhanshu Sarangi, to personally oversee the fire safety measures and ensure compliance at SCB Medical College and Hospital.”

“A judicial inquiry into the incident has been ordered. Should negligence be determined as the cause of the fire, the government will take strict action following the inquiry report,” he concluded.