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Tragic Fire at Odisha Hospital Claims 10 Lives, Inquiry Launched

3/16/2026

22 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, on March 16, 2026, killed at least 10 patients in the trauma ICU where 23 were being treated after an electrical short circuit.
Eleven staff members suffered burns while rescuing patients.
Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi announced a judicial inquiry and promised strict action.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and offered $2,160 in compensation to families.

History

Historical Context

The 2026 fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, which resulted in 10 deaths, recalls the 1997 Uphaar Cinema fire in Delhi that killed 59 due to safety violations. Following that tragedy, the Supreme Court mandated stricter fire safety regulations. The recent incident underscores ongoing enforcement challenges, prompting Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to announce a judicial inquiry to address systemic failures.

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Story summary

A fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, on March 16, 2026, killed at least 10 patients in the trauma ICU where 23 were being treated after an electrical short circuit.
Eleven staff members suffered burns while rescuing patients.
Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi announced a judicial inquiry and promised strict action.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and offered $2,160 in compensation to families.

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