Story perspectives

Tragic Hospital Fire in Odisha Claims 10 Lives

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, killed at least 10 patients and injured 11 staff during evacuation on March 16.
The blaze, likely from a short circuit, broke out around 2:30 a.m.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed the deaths and ordered a judicial inquiry with strict action.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and offered $2,160 in compensation to victims’ families.

History

Historical Context

The 2023 fire at SCB Medical College in Cuttack recalls the 1997 Uphaar Cinema tragedy, which claimed 59 lives due to poor safety measures. Following that incident, the Supreme Court of India enforced stricter fire safety regulations. The recent blaze, resulting in 10 deaths and 11 injuries, underscores persistent issues in hospital safety protocols, potentially prompting further reforms in emergency preparedness across Indian healthcare facilities.

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Story summary

A fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, killed at least 10 patients and injured 11 staff during evacuation on March 16.
The blaze, likely from a short circuit, broke out around 2:30 a.m.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed the deaths and ordered a judicial inquiry with strict action.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and offered $2,160 in compensation to victims’ families.

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