Jaipur Hospital Fire Kills Six, Kin Allege Negligence
A fire broke out late Sunday night in the Trauma ICU of Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur, killing six critically ill patients and leaving at least five others in serious condition. Relatives have accused hospital staff of ignoring early warnings and fleeing instead of helping those inside.
Fire and Impact
Hospital officials say the blaze likely began because of a short circuit in a storage area adjacent to the ICU. The fire and ensuing smoke spread rapidly, engulfing the ward. Some patients were evacuated by staff and attendants to safer parts of the hospital, but six could not be saved.
Allegations from Family Members
Family members claim they alerted staff about smoke, but their calls for help were ignored. Some allege hospital workers, including nurses and orderlies, left the area in panic before ensuring patients’ safety. The chaotic scene reportedly forced relatives to assist with moving patients on beds and trolleys.
Official Response and Investigation
The Rajasthan government has ordered an inquiry. The state’s Chief Minister and health officials visited the hospital to assess the damage and hear grievances. An investigation into infrastructure, emergency protocols, staffing, and safety compliance has been launched.
Doctors have acknowledged the fire’s origin in the storage area, but maintain that emergency efforts were underway quickly. The exact cause, and whether negligence contributed to fatalities, will depend on forensic and fire department reports.
