'Are Safety Standards at Jaipur Hospital Failing?': Sachin Pilot Reacts to Tragic Fire Incident

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Eight patients died due to a fire at SMS Hospital.
- The fire was caused by negligence in safety protocols.
- Rescue operations and investigations are ongoing.
- Sachin Pilot emphasizes the need for accountability.
- Public outrage is growing for reforms in healthcare safety.
Jaipur, Oct 6 (NationPress) In the wake of the tragic fire at Jaipur’s Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital Trauma Centre, which resulted in the loss of eight lives, former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot described the event as a clear case of negligence and urged for accountability at all levels.
"The fire that erupted late Sunday night at SMS Hospital in Jaipur is profoundly serious. It led to the deaths of multiple patients and sparked widespread panic. The incident at the largest government hospital in the state is alarming and necessitates a comprehensive investigation. The families of the deceased should receive necessary support and justice. This event has unveiled significant flaws in safety protocols and systems," he stated on his X handle.
Addressing the press, Pilot expressed, “The incident at SMS Hospital is exceptionally tragic. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Such a mishap at the state's most prestigious hospital is undoubtedly a result of negligence.”
His statements came as rescue efforts were ongoing and investigators initiated the collection of forensic evidence from the ICU where the fire ignited late Sunday night.
The fire, which started in a locked storage area within the Trauma Centre’s ICU, rapidly disseminated thick smoke throughout the unit, resulting in the suffocation of patients who could not be evacuated in time.
Pilot underscored that this calamity exposed serious deficiencies in safety measures and emergency preparedness at one of the state’s most developed hospitals.
He urged the state government to ensure accountability for those responsible and to reassess systems to avert such catastrophes in the future. “Offering condolences is not sufficient.
The government must guarantee strict measures against any negligence and promptly reassess fire safety regulations across all hospitals,” he insisted.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar, and other senior officials have vowed to conduct a thorough investigation.
A forensic team has been dispatched, and autopsies are currently in progress.
Pilot’s comments reflect the escalating public outrage and political pressure to rectify deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure.
As the state mourns the loss of eight individuals, calls for systemic reform are intensifying from both the public and political factions.