The Odisha Legislative Assembly witnessed repeated disruptions over the SCB Medical fire incident, with opposition parties demanding the resignation of the state’s Health Minister.
Members of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Indian National Congress staged strong protests as soon as the House convened. Opposition legislators entered the well of the House, raising slogans and creating a ruckus, forcing the Speaker to adjourn proceedings until 11:30 am.
The protests later continued outside the Assembly premises, where opposition members demonstrated near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi.
Ongoing Deadlock Since March 17
The Assembly has been witnessing continuous disruptions since March 17 over the fire incident at SCB Medical College and Hospital. Despite efforts to resolve the impasse, including an all-party meeting convened by the Speaker, no consensus has been reached so far.
Government Responds to Allegations
Responding to the opposition’s demands, Tankadhar Tripathy of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the protests, calling them politically motivated.
He stated that both the Chief Minister and the Health Minister visited the hospital immediately after the incident. He also highlighted that two committees have been formed and a judicial inquiry is currently underway, with a defined timeline for submitting the report.
Tripathy assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible based on the findings of the investigation.
Debate Over Resignation Demand
The BJP MLA further questioned the opposition’s demand for resignation, pointing out that similar allegations had surfaced against ministers during previous governments, yet no resignations were tendered at the time.
He emphasized that due process must be followed and that accountability would be ensured after the inquiry report is completed.
With both sides maintaining firm positions, the legislative deadlock is expected to continue unless a political resolution is reached. The outcome of the ongoing inquiry into the SCB Medical fire incident will likely play a crucial role in shaping further developments.
