Odisha’s Healthcare System Alarming, Death of 6 Patients at Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College, Koraput : BJD

By Kalinga Voice Last updated Jun 5, 2025

Demand for Impartial Probe and White Paper
Strict Action Must Be Taken Against Those Responsible

Bhubaneswar, 04/06/2025:The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today expressed grave concern over the death of six patients in a single day at Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College in Koraput, terming it a serious reflection of the deteriorating state of Odisha’s healthcare system.

At a press conference held at Sankha Bhavan, Senior General Secretary of the party Shri BhruguBaxipatra, Koraput District BJD President Shri Jhina Hikaka, and former MLA Shri Raghuram Padal held the State Government accountable for these tragic deaths—five in the ICU and one in the general ward—within 24 hours, reportedly due to medical negligence.

They pointed out that earlier, the people of Koraput often had to rely on neighbouring Andhra Pradesh for medical treatment. Understanding this, visionary former Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik had established Saheed Laxman Nayak Government Medical College in Koraput to serve the region. Despite the BJP government’s propaganda about delivering results in one year, this tragic incident exposes the health department’s negligence and mismanagement.

Shri Baxipatra further stated that such a sensitive incident has not only disheartened the patients and their families but has also raised public demand for transparency regarding the true cause of death. The BJD demanded that the state government immediately issue a white paper on the incident and take strict action against those responsible.

Koraput District BJD President Shri Hikaka reminded the media that the Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College was once nationally recognized. The current condition, he emphasized, is the result of government apathy.

Former MLA Shri Padal called for an investigation to determine who is responsible for this alleged case of medical malpractice. He warned that unless the culprits are punished, people—particularly from the tribal-dominated region—will lose faith in the government-run healthcare system.